‘Shape a better Northern Ireland’: Young people invited to apply for Northern Ireland Youth Assembly

Members of the Northern Ireland Youth Assembly pictured outside Stormont Parliament Buildings

The Northern Ireland Youth Assembly has opened recruitment for its next mandate, inviting young people in school years 9 to 12 to apply for a place in the 2025–2027 Youth Assembly.

Established in 2021, the Youth Assembly provides a platform for young people to share their views on the issues that matter most to them and influence decisions taken by the Northern Ireland Assembly and other key policymakers.

Applications for the new intake are open until midnight on Monday 29 September 2025, with 90 places available across Assembly constituencies and Section 75 categories including gender, religious background, race, care experience and disability.

‘A fantastic opportunity’

The Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly, Edwin Poots MLA, said the programme has already demonstrated the importance of giving young people a voice.

“I’m pleased to officially open the recruitment process for the third mandate of the Youth Assembly,” he said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to be involved in expressing their views and shaping the policies that impact their lives, to learn about how the Assembly works and to gain valuable experiences for their personal development for the future.

“As we conclude the second mandate of the Youth Assembly, I am able to reflect on the very important contributions these young people have made to the democratic process. Their work on matters such as mental health in schools, the curriculum, and young women’s rights has not only provided fresh insight, but helped to ensure that the voice of young people is present where decisions are made.

“Now, it’s time for a new group of young people to step forward. This is your chance to help shape a better Northern Ireland — one where your views and experiences can guide real change.”

How the Youth Assembly works

Members of the Northern Ireland Youth Assembly pictured inside Stormont Parliament Buildings

Over a two-year term, Youth Assembly Members will meet regularly at Parliament Buildings in Belfast, where plenary sessions are chaired by the Speaker. Members will also take part in committee meetings, allowing them to explore specific issues in detail and develop recommendations.

To support them, a comprehensive training programme is offered, covering public speaking, research, Assembly processes and engagement with experts and stakeholders.

Young people not selected as full members can still take part through the Youth Assembly Consultation Forum, which helps members gather views from a wider range of young people across Northern Ireland.

Speaker Poots added:

“We want to hear from young people from all backgrounds and communities.

“If you’re passionate about making a difference, then this is the platform for you.”

How to apply

• Applications can be submitted online at: https://niyouthassembly.org/recruitment/

• Deadline: Midnight, Monday 29 September 2025

• Open to: Young people in school years 9 to 12

For advice or alternative application formats, email: youthassembly@niassembly.gov.uk.