Kids political site gets reform

Initially launched as a pilot site last year, HeadsUp hosts an online debating space for under-18s to share their views on issues such as the voting age and the asylum system.

Recently, participants’ views on the children’s commission were quoted on the floor of the House of Commons.

Ross Ferguson, the Handsard Society’s new media manager, said: “In the popular conscious these young people are thought to be apathetic – carriers of the political disengagement afflicting the UK.

“To dispel this myth, what we need are more opportunities like HeadsUp where young people can participate in the democratic process in a purposeful manner.”

MMI has given the site a new “grungy” look, improved navigation, and more background information supported by an interactive quiz. Debates will open longer and involve parliamentarians on a more regular basis.

The current debate is ‘Get in there… How should you be involved in school management?’ which will feature contributions from minister for schools, Stephen Twigg MP and shadow minister for Young People, Charles Hendry MP.