Many young people are affected by the cost of living crisis. Learning how to manage their finances and understanding the economy allows young individuals to shape their financial futures. By participating in economic discussions, they can contribute to inclusive policies, sustainable growth, and reduced inequalities.
Who’s Responsible
Whataretheydoing?
The Welsh Government proposes the budget for each area it is responsible for, as well as setting the rates for devolved taxes, which in turn impacts public policy decisions in Wales. The UK Parliament is responsible for wider UK economic policy. Local authorities are responsible for ensuring a thriving local economy, taking into account the wider UK/devolved policy environment. The Senedd’s Trade and Rural Affairs Committee holds the Welsh Government to account in specific areas including business, economic development, international trade, and skills.
Whatcanyoudo?
Economy and finance affect many aspects of our daily lives, so examining what decisions governments are making on our behalf and how these issues affect you as you transition into adulthood is important. Talk about financial responsibilities and educate yourself by learning more about personal finance, national and international economics, and make choices based on what’s best for your future.
Greta’s peaceful protests inspired a worldwide youth movement, got politicians to engage with climate change issues, and improved public awareness. Her impact has been called the ‘Greta effect.’
The first Member of the Welsh Youth Parliament representing Race Council Cymru. Angel made impactful contributions to call for Black and People of Colour’s histories to be part of Wales’s school curriculum.
Marcus’s highest profile impact was influencing the UK Government to extend free school meals for children. He also raised the profile of the issue in the media and public leading to a national conversation about food poverty.
Poppy is a strong advocate for equality, social justice and human rights. She’s a passionate climate change activist and considers herself as an internationalist, believing countries should work together.
Greta’s peaceful protests inspired a worldwide youth movement, got politicians to engage with climate change issues, and improved public awareness. Her impact has been called the ‘Greta effect.’
The first Member of the Welsh Youth Parliament representing Race Council Cymru. Angel made impactful contributions to call for Black and People of Colour’s histories to be part of Wales’s school curriculum.
Marcus’s highest profile impact was influencing the UK Government to extend free school meals for children. He also raised the profile of the issue in the media and public leading to a national conversation about food poverty.
Poppy is a strong advocate for equality, social justice and human rights. She’s a passionate climate change activist and considers herself as an internationalist, believing countries should work together.
Greta’s peaceful protests inspired a worldwide youth movement, got politicians to engage with climate change issues, and improved public awareness. Her impact has been called the ‘Greta effect.’
Local councils
Many parts of the UK have two tiers of local government, county councils and district, borough or city councils. County councils are responsible for services across the whole of a county including education, planning, and waste management. District, borough and city councils cover a smaller area and are usually responsible for services like housing, recycling, and rubbish collection. Parish, community and town councils operate at a level below district and borough councils and can help on local issues like providing allotments, bus shelters, and consultation on neighbourhood planning. Wales is divided into 22 unitary authorities, also known as principal areas, which function as county or county borough councils (replacing the previous two-tier system of county and district councils).
Cymru/Wales Parliament
The Welsh Parliament, Senedd Cymru, is the democratically elected body that represents the interests of Wales and its people. It makes laws for Wales, agrees Welsh taxes, and oversees the work and spending of the Welsh Government. It does this through debates, questioning ministers, and with the investigative work of its committees. Debates allow Members to voice your concerns in the Senedd, discuss topical issues, and decide on new laws. Committees look at the work of the Welsh Government and other public organisations in Wales in specific devolved areas.
House of Commons
The House of Commons is the elected part of the United Kingdom Parliament. Ministers are the members who are in the government. Political parties not in government are called the opposition. The Speaker is an MP who has been elected by other MPs to act as Chair during debates.
House of Lords
The House of Lords provides a second opinion to the House of Commons and the government. The main role of the House of Lords is making laws, checking and challenging the government and investigating public policy.
Economicactivism
You can utilise your economic power to make change by boycotting companies and organisations to pressure them to change their behaviour, or rewarding companies and organisations through patronage and positive social media.
Lobbying
Lobbying is an important part of politics and is the lawful attempt to influence political decision makers, such as MPs and government ministers. Individuals, advocacy/special interest groups, and professional lobbyists can influence elected representatives through lobbying.
Politicalparties
Most political parties have youth sections which deal with issues most relevant to young people.