Bristol's support for the people of Ukraine has been emphasised again by the local authority, this time in the form of an open letter from Bristol City's Youth Council. We share below a preview of this letter, the full version of which can be read here:

"We are horrified by the aggression and hostility towards the Ukrainian people, and the impact that these actions will have on the youth of Ukraine. Many have been forced either to evacuate their homes, leaving families behind, or remain in hiding, in metro stations and basements which now act as bomb shelters.

The young people of Ukraine have already missed out on months of education due to the pandemic, and yet now, they’re forced to abandon their education once more, missing out on crucial hours of learning. Education has proven to be the greatest weapon against poverty and conflict, and the closure of hundreds of schools in the country once again could prove to be hugely detrimental to these young people, who have no choice but to remain in hiding, with some even forced to defend their homes.

(...)

As an elected body, representing young people of Bristol, we understand the importance of democracy and freedom - something that Ukrainians are demonstrating in their determination to protect in their homeland. We also understand that we as a council, city and country, should do what we can to welcome those fleeing this conflict."

The Bristol City Youth Council (BCYC) and Bristol Members of the United Kingdom Youth Parliament (UKYP) are an elected group of young people aged 11 to 18. Members are voted for in the Bristol Big Youth Vote. 

The council was created to ensure that children and young people can express their views on the decisions that are important to them and that their opinions are voiced and heard.

They can make positive changes in their communities and make a difference to the young people of Bristol. 

You can read their latest manifesto here.