Two Rathbone Cymru learners came face to face with the British Prime Minister – and found he was party to their notion of lowering the voting age to 16.

Young Ambassadors Kasi Lugg and Amy Landrygan joined staff from Rathbone at a special event to debate the future of Britain held at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. And while they were expecting a leading politician to tackle their question about greater democracy for young people they didn’t anticipate a personal audience with Gordon Brown!

“We knew we were going to a session attended by the British Cabinet” said Amy, who is studying at our Crumlin centre in the hope of becoming a teacher, “but it was such a surprise to meet the Prime Minister. He had a really down to earth, relaxed attitude and answered our question fully. It was a great opportunity to get young peoples’ voices heard.”

Amy and Kasi recently took part in a major consultation about whether those aged 16-18 should be able to exercise their democratic right. Apart from endorsing the idea, the Young Ambassadors urged politicians to campaign in young people friendly language and allow people to vote by text and phone.

Would-be Newport hairdresser Kasi certainly felt the Prime Minister was a cut above. She said: “Mr Brown said that ours’ was a hot topic in Parliament and that he would like to see the voting age lowered. He then put it to the audience and they agreed with us, too. I think we have shown that you can make an impact and who knows we may have begun to persuade politicians to listen to our views.”

Following the question and answer session, Kasi, Amy plus Corrie Barber from Rathbone were introduced to the PM; and Work and Pensions Secretary Yvette Cooper. Both gave Rathbone their vote of thanks for coming along and asking such a challenging question.

The Young Ambassadors scheme is run within Rathbone to gain young people’s opinions on issues and allow them to play an active part in shaping the charity’s thinking.

Pictured left to right, are: Amy Landyrgan, Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Corrie Barber Policy and Development Officer, Rathbone Cymru and Kasi Lugg.