Uplifting every girl's voice this Parliament Week

From 24-30 November, UK Parliament Week helps all girls learn about their rights, speak up and discover the powerful tool of democracy.

Girls unscripted invites members of Amplify, our youth steering group, and Advocates, who lead Girlguiding’s public-facing campaigning and research, to share what’s on their minds. Each topic is chosen by them, to let volunteers know what they’re thinking about, what they love, and why it matters to them.

In this edition, Bess from Amplify tells us what girl voice means to her, why it matters at every age, and how Parliament Week is the perfect opportunity for guiding members to learn more about politics and governance.

No section left behind

For volunteers, this week is an exciting opportunity to help girls grow their confidence and inspire them to use their voices.

For me, Parliament Week is one of the highlights of Girlguiding. It’s a chance to celebrate, reflect, and learn more about the political system that shapes our lives.

But what makes Girlguiding’s celebrations unique? Every section can get involved.

My guiding journey through politics

As a Brownie, I loved teaming up with friends to quiz each other on political facts and drawing pictures of historical female figures like the suffragettes who changed the role of women in democracy.

Later, as a Guide, I enjoyed creating manifestos for ‘prime minister for a day’ and presenting them to the group.

Now, as a Ranger, young leader, and member of Amplify, I’m excited to work on the new Girl Voice badges with my Rainbow and Brownie units – helping them understand why their voices matter and how they can use them for change.

Representation still matters

It’s essential that we give girls the resources and knowledge they need to change our politics and society for the better.’

Bess, 15, Amplify member

In the UK, women’s political rights are still a relatively recent achievement. The law equalising voting rights for men and women over 21 was passed less than and, even today, women remain underrepresented in Parliament. As of 2025, women hold 40% of seats in the House of Commons.

Girlguiding’s Girls' Attitudes Survey found that 50% of girls want to see more female leaders in politics. That tells us something important: girls want change, and we need to give them the tools and confidence to make it happen.

Why girl voice is powerful

As I got older, I heard friends say things like "politics is nonsense" or "there’s no point in voting". That’s when I realised how many young people haven’t had the same experiences and why it’s so important to teach girls how democracy works.’

Bess, 15, Amplify member

Guiding taught me early on that girl voice in politics matters – whether it’s voting, holding politicians accountable, or staying informed.

In 2025, accurate information is more important than ever. Social media can be a force for good, but it’s also a place where misinformation spreads quickly. Our Girls’ Attitudes Survey also revealed that 92% of girls aged 11–21 have taken at least one action to enhance their safety online. That shows how vital critical thinking is for young people.

Parliament Week encourages girls to step outside their comfort zone – researching, learning from unbiased sources, and questioning what they read and hear.

One of the most memorable sessions I had as a Guide was when we discussed the UK's cost-of-living crisis. Our leaders challenged us to brainstorm solutions as if we were prime minister. It taught me that problems rarely have simple fixes, and that’s why critical thinking matters for young people.

Want to help your unit build these skills? Try Girlguiding’s media topic in unit meeting activities (check out packs 9 and 10). It helps girls explore how to navigate the media – from spotting fake news to understanding the bigger picture behind headlines.

You can also check out our affordability and guiding page for guidance on practical help with costs and ways to make sure all girls are included.

Girlguiding leading the way

This year, we launched 72 new interest badges, including the Girl Voice badges in the Take Action theme. Designed by Amplify, these badges – my thoughts, my voice, my views and my say – are made for girls, by girls.

The activities help girls understand where their voices can be used and how to turn ideas into actionable change. And just like Parliament Week, every section can get involved.

Speaking up against sexism and misogyny

We also recently launched our campaign against sexism and misogyny because every girl deserves to feel safe, respected and empowered to speak up and be themselves - free from sexism and discrimination.

Why not encourage girls to add their name to our open letter to the prime minister and show how their voice can make a difference?

6 tips for getting involved in UK parliament and politics

1. Explore UK Parliament Week resources

Take advantage of the activities available on the UK Parliament Week website – from debates, petitions, discussions, to how you can meet your local MP or councillor. These activities can spark curiosity and make politics feel real and relevant.

2. Plan together

Decide together which Take Action badges you’d like to complete and the activities you want to do. Guides and Rangers especially want to be involved in planning. Ask them what political topics interest them. Maybe they want to debate, create manifestos, or even meet local representatives.

For Rainbows and Brownies, keep it simple with fun activities like drawing suffragette posters or voting on their favourite badge.

3. Get interactive

If your unit needs inspiration, use prompts like “What would you change if you were prime minister?” or “What’s one rule you’d make?”

For younger sections, use smiley faces or thumbs up/down to vote on activities.

Older sections might like to write to their local MP about issues that matter to them. Girls could take inspiration from our recent campaign against sexism and misogyny and open letter to the prime minister.

4. Ask their opinion

Quick check-ins like “Would you like to…?” or “What do you think about…?” make girls feel valued and in control.

5. Create safe spaces

Girls share best when they feel heard. Encourage open conversations, listen actively, and reassure them that their voice matters. A safe, supportive environment helps them build confidence in their ideas.

6. Look after yourself too

It’s okay to feel unprepared for tough conversations. Taking breaks, especially from media, when needed will help you create a strong positive environment for both volunteers and your girls.

Most importantly, have fun! Parliament Week is about empowerment, inspiration and support. Make it a week to remember.