Year 11 student says he will focus on affordable transport and more support for young people

A Sidmouth College student is fighting the corner for young people in East Devon as the region’s newly-elected representative on the Youth Parliament.

David Luxon, 15, will focus on affordable and accessible transport for youngsters and is also calling for more support for people in education and argues ‘life’ subjects, such as tax and insurance, should be taught to school leavers.

The year 11 student was up against candidates from across mid and East Devon but won the most votes and found out he had been elected onto the Youth Parliament at an election evening at County Hall, Exeter, last month.

David, of Arcot Park, says he does not have any aspirations to pursue a career in politics, but he is passionate about issues that affect his peers, such as youth housing and aspirations for future generations.

He is also a member of a social action group at Sidmouth Youth Centre.

David said: “Transport is crucial for young people to meet their friends, get to appointments and other meetings. But if you can’t afford it, or your town doesn’t have a reasonable bus schedule, then you could miss out on these experiences and this needs to change in favour of young people.

“More support for all young people is also important as your education is the most crucial part of your life and if you don’t receive enough support, or are afraid to ask, you will not do the best you can - which is potentially life-wrecking.

“Furthermore, when you are out of education, you have to pay insurance and taxes which lots of young people don’t understand. I would like to see this change so all young people can have at least a little understanding on how taxes and insurance works.”

David explained he initially attended an information day about the youth parliament and how to run, he then submitted a manifesto which was sent to all registered polling stations and the voting took place between January 30, and February 10.

He invited his dad and brother to attend the election evening on February 13, as his mum had to stay and care for his younger brother.

The first meeting he will attend at the Youth Parliament will be held on Saturday, March 4.

Assistant vice principal Lisa Whitworth said: “The college is delighted with David’s achievement and very proud that he is the first student to represent the local area in Youth Parliament from Sidmouth.

“We hope David will share his experiences with students in school and inspire them to take a further interest in politics.”