Falkirk MP visits RNIB Scotland's award-winning youth forum
John McNally MP sitting and speaking to Haggeye members
Haggeye, which is run by RNIB Scotland, meets regularly to discuss important issues that are relevant to the group as well as hosting informative workshops. The group enables young blind and partially sighted people to campaign for change, influence the provision of services, meet new people and make new friends as well as discuss and share issues of concern with them.
The most recent session took place on Saturday 18th November at Forth Valley Sensory Centre in Falkirk, where John McNally, MP for Falkirk, came to visit and talk with Haggeye members. The session was also attended by Philippa Mason, the UK Parliament’s Senior Education and Engagement Officer for Scotland, who helped the members learn more about the UK Parliament and how they can have their voice heard.
Haggeye has two permanent Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament, where they can raise issues that are important to them. The group also publishes an online newsletter, which was launched in July 2023.
Luke, a Haggeye member said,
"We learnt a lot more about Parliament, more than I even knew! We also learnt the new name for Big Ben, which is actually called the Elizabeth Tower.
“I’ve met some new people, and it was really great meeting everybody."
John McNally MP, Member of Parliament for Falkirk said,
"It was a very enjoyable Haggeye event and a pleasure to meet all the people who attended.
“It was a great experience, and I was mightily impressed with the knowledge that all the members possessed of how the two Governments work on separate reserved and devolved matters.
“I hope that the participants do become more involved in the decision-making process in any career they may pursue.
“Thanks to everyone for inviting me, for the questions that I was asked and I hope to meet everyone again."
Philippa Mason, Senior Education and Engagement Officer (Scotland) for the UK Parliament says,
"It was a pleasure meeting the wonderful young people in the Haggeye group on Saturday. Everyone was so engaged and enthusiastic!
“I hope this is just the start and we can work together in the future to discuss different ways group members can get their voice heard in the UK Parliament."
Haggeye provides a friendly and supportive environment which allows young people to raise awareness of what it's like to be blind or partially sighted in Scotland today. The forum enables its members to campaign for change, influence the provision of services, meet new people and make new friends, and discuss and share issues of concern with them.
More information about Haggeye can be found on RNIB's website: www.rnib.org.uk/haggeye
For more information on how you can get involved or to find out more about campaigning with Haggeye, email [email protected] or call/text 07821 637 317.
