Barnsley’s young people show politics matters to them as over 10,000 vote in Youth Council elections

The votes are in, and once again it’s an excellent turn out at the polls as we’re proud to announce that a total of 10,015 young people took part in the 2026 Barnsley Youth Council elections, marking another successful year of youth democratic participation across the borough. 

An impressive 71.9 per cent of eligible young people aged 11 to 18 voted throughout February across 10 secondary schools, underlining strong interest in local democracy and decision‑making. 

In addition, 1,434 votes were cast by young people from Barnsley College sites, as well as those who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) and Electively Home Educated (EHE).

 More than 80 young people aged 11 to 18 put themselves forward as candidates, standing for one of the 38 available seats on Barnsley Youth Council. 

Polling stations were made widely accessible across the borough, including 10 secondary schools, six Barnsley College sites, two sixth‑form settings, and Springwell Special Academy, alongside a number of open access polling stations for EHE and NEET young people. 

Barnsley Youth Council plays a vital role in empowering young people to raise issues that matter to them and to influence decisions through a recognised democratic framework.

 The newly elected council will begin work later this month, shaping its priorities using the themes of the new National Youth Strategy, alongside local consultation with young people. Over the next two years, members will lead campaigns, influence change and ensure young people’s voices are represented locally, regionally and nationally. 

The council will also elect two Members of Youth Parliament, who will represent Barnsley on both a regional and national stage. 

Cllr Ashley Peace, Cabinet Spokesperson for Children's Services, said: “I would like to say a huge thank you and well done to all the young people, schools and college sites who participated in the election. It was a huge success, and every young person who got involved should be extremely proud of themselves. 

“Being involved in shaping the development of the town and services for young people makes you a real credit to Barnsley and its future. A big thank you also goes to BYouth: Barnsley Young People’s Service, and the Participation Team, who supported young people throughout the process and made these elections such a success.”

The outstanding turnout once again demonstrates that Barnsley’s young people care deeply about their communities and are ready and willing to play an active role in shaping the future of the borough.