PATRICK Hurley MP is encouraging schools, youth groups and community organisations across Southport and the Northern Parishes to sign up for UK Parliament Week 2026 and help inspire the next generation to engage with democracy.

UK Parliament Week (UKPW) is Parliament's annual event to raise awareness of what Parliament is, what it does, and how people can get involved. Following a record-breaking year in 2025, organisers are aiming to make UK Parliament Week 2026 the biggest yet.

This year's UK Parliament Week will take place from:- 23–29 November 2026. Everyone who signs up will receive a free activity kit packed with resources, including tailored booklets, a pop-up ballot box, banners, stickers and a unique Petitions Pursuit board game to help run activities.

Last year, more than 2.8 million people took part in over 20,000 activities across the UK, with 40 schools and community organisations signing up for activities just in Southport.

At Banks St Stephen's Primary School, pupils established a school parliament in partnership with the wider Banks community, featuring a student-led House of Commons and an adult-led House of Lords. Pupils also had the opportunity to visit the Palace of Westminster and watch a parliamentary debate.

Patrick Hurley also attended informative Q and A sessions at Norwood, Holy Family, and Hesketh-with-Becconsall All Saints primary schools.

Patrick Hurley, MP for Southport and the Northern Parishes, said:- "Last year I had the opportunity to visit several schools across the constituency and was incredibly impressed by the enthusiasm and engagement shown by young people. Students weren't just learning about Parliament and democracy, they were asking thoughtful questions about issues that affect their lives, from national policy debates to local matters here in Southport and the Northern Parishes. Helping young people understand how decisions are made and how they can make their voices heard is incredibly important. I would encourage schools, youth groups and community organisations across our area to sign up and take part in UK Parliament Week 2026."

Schools, youth groups and community organisations can sign up for UK Parliament Week and receive a free activity kit by visiting UKPW26-signup.