YOUNG people in Basingstoke are needed to act as the voice of youth in parliament.

Hampshire County Council (HCC) is inviting nominations from young people aged 11 to 18 to stand for the UK Youth Parliament from 2015 to 2017.

There are four seats available for Hampshire in the 2015 UK Youth Parliament elections, and candidates can stand in one of four geographical areas, including Basingstoke, which also comes under Winchester and Eastleigh.

Young people across Hampshire will then have the chance to vote for who they would like to see representing Hampshire in the UK Youth Parliament.

A workshop for those wishing to stand for election as a Member of Youth Parliament (MYP) in their representative constituencies will be held on Saturday, January 24 at HCC’s headquarters in Winchester, from 10am until 1pm.

Although there is no formal criteria to become an MYP, candidates should be a young person who will take the responsibility seriously, has an interest in relevant matters and a view on topical issues, will listen to and respect the views of their peer group and those of others, can speak their mind, will ask for support, advice and help if required, and is committed, lively and outgoing.

The role of an MYP requires commitment, including attending meetings with HCC decision makers and attending training events and youth conferences.

Councillor Keith Mans, HCC’s executive lead member for children’s services, and deputy leader, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to learn more about democracy and decision making, and to represent their peers in the community.”

The elections will be held between February 2 and 13, with voting taking place online at mi-vote.com.

Voters can pick up a unique voter code from their school or college.

Results will be announced on February 23, with the candidate in each geographical area with the highest number of votes becoming the MYP.

Prospective candidates should register by January 15 at hants.gov.uk/ukyp-elections2015.