A Wrexham A-level student has taken centre stage in the House of Commons, opening a national debate on young people’s health as the only representative from North Wales in the UK Youth Parliament.
Daniel Edwards, a first-year A-level student at Coleg Cambria’s Yale Sixth Form and former pupil of St Joseph’s High School, is Wrexham’s elected Member of the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP). He recently delivered a bilingual speech from the dispatch box during the annual UKYP sitting at Westminster.
Speaking in both Welsh and English, Daniel addressed a range of issues affecting young people, including NHS waiting times, substance misuse, mental health awareness and the need for trained wellbeing professionals in every school. He also called for greater long-term investment in health services, echoing the words of Aneurin Bevan by urging support “from the cradle to the grave”.
Describing the experience as a “huge privilege”, Daniel said: “UK Youth Parliament brings young people together to create meaningful change. Our voices deserve to be heard, respected and acted upon. It was incredibly nerve-racking, but an unforgettable moment to stand where so many significant political figures, including Aneurin Bevan, once stood. Health is an issue I care deeply about, and serving on that committee made it an honour to speak on the topic.”
Daniel, who studied Government and Politics, English Literature and History, began his two-year term as a UKYP member in March 2024. Since then, he has been involved in national campaigns including Votes at 16, political literacy and improving political education in schools.
While he hopes to pursue a future in politics, Daniel says he would first like to gain broader experience, potentially in youth work, journalism or history.
Mel Henry, Curriculum Director and Deputy Head of Yale Sixth Form, said: “We are incredibly proud of Daniel. He has shown exceptional maturity, confidence and passion. His commitment to representing young people locally makes him an outstanding ambassador for the college and for North Wales.”
Tricia Jones, Youth Support Worker at Wrexham Council and coordinator of Wrexham’s youth parliament, Senedd yr Ifanc, added: “Daniel did a brilliant job opening the debate on health in the House of Commons. He has shown real dedication to ensuring Wrexham’s young people have a strong and respected voice on a national platform.”
Wrexham student opens UK Youth Parliament health debate in House of Commons
