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Voting for the next Member of Youth Parliament is now live

Young people in ßÙßÇÂþ»­ have an exciting opportunity to help shape the county’s future. They can now (MYP). Voting is open to anyone aged 11 to 18. Voting closes 22 February.

Sixteen young people are standing for election, and each one wants to help make ßÙßÇÂþ»­ better for children and teens. They bring their own ideas, experiences and a commitment to improving life for young people in ßÙßÇÂþ»­.

What MYPs do

MYPs speak up for young people and share views with adults who make decisions. Supported by our ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Voice team, they take part in youth-led activities which strengthen their role as elected representatives.

Here is some things ßÙßÇÂþ»­ MYPs do:

• Speak in the House of Commons: as part of the UK Youth Parliament, MYPs participate in the annual debate in the House of Commons, chaired by the Speaker
• Lead national change: ßÙßÇÂþ»­ MYP Alex currently serves as Chair of the UK Youth Parliament’s Votes at 16 campaign committee
• Meet local MPs: working directly with MPs and decision-makers to represent young people’s views and push for change

Their work helps ensure young people’s voices are heard at local and national levels.

Why this election matters

There is a growing interest among young people in sharing their views and creating change. This has led to the recent creation of the ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Council. It builds on the existing ßÙßÇÂþ»­ Youth Cabinet (SYC), allowing more young people to get involved.

ßÙßÇÂþ»­ will soon have two new councils: East ßÙßÇÂþ»­ and West ßÙßÇÂþ»­, with elections taking place in May. MYPs will also now represent these two areas. This means young people’s views will be heard as ßÙßÇÂþ»­ changes.

How you can help

If you have children, grandchildren or young people in your life aged 11–18, you can play a key role in helping them take part. A gentle reminder from you can help a young person feel that their voice matters.

Encourage them to (MYP). Voting closes 22 February.

Elections to new councils

Government has confirmed that for the new East ßÙßÇÂþ»­ and West ßÙßÇÂþ»­ unitary councils will go ahead in May 2026.

Depending on where you live, you will have the opportunity to vote for who you want to represent either East ßÙßÇÂþ»­ or West ßÙßÇÂþ»­. You’ll vote from your local polling station. We’ll provide full details as they are confirmed.

The Councillors elected in May 2026 will work as part of 'shadow authorities' for one year alongside the existing councils to oversee the transition to the new governance arrangements.

They will then continue to represent East ßÙßÇÂþ»­ and West ßÙßÇÂþ»­ beyond April 2027, when the two new unitary authorities officially take over delivering all local services in your area.

Your existing county, borough and district Councillors will represent you until 31 March 2027 as we continue to deliver your services in the current council set up until the transfer.