Runcorn youngster’s trip to Parliament

Published by Roisin Rowley-Smith for Riverside in Communities and also in Education, Housing

Young people from four housing estates in Runcorn witnessed democracy in action on a trip to the Houses of Parliament, funded by social landlord, Riverside, and Halton Borough Council.

The youngsters, aged 10-16 years, are junior board members of Runcorn charity, Four Estates, which delivers community work in Halton Brook, Murdishaw, Palace Fields and Hallwood Park. 

Riverside’s community engagement officer, Lorna Hughes, joined the group who met Halton’s two MPs, Graham Evans and Derek Twigg.  The youngsters had a guided tour of Parliament and the opportunity to view MPs debating health issues.

Lorna Hughes said:  “The trip was a great way for children to learn more about the way our government works and to compare this with what happens at local level.”

Joe Kearney, 16, from Palace Fields said:  “It was fantastic.  Our MPs were great and it was interesting to learn so much more of our history.  Watching the debate in real life, rather than on TV was amazing.”

Runcorn’s Mayor, Councillor Tom McInerney (pictured) waved the children off from Runcorn station.