There’s a chance for young people across Barnsley to have their voices heard on the issues that matter most to them by representing their peers, as the nomination process begins for Barnsley Youth Council Elections.

Barnsley Youth Council is a group of young people who are elected by their peers to represent the views of other young people living in our borough.  They work closely with Barnsley Council and its partners to make sure young people’s voices are heard in decisions that affect their lives, locally, regionally, and nationally.

Anyone in secondary year 8 or above is eligible to stand for election and voting will take place in schools and college early in the new year.

There are positions available for young people to represent each of Barnsley’s secondary schools and the communities that they serve and there are also seats available in Barnsley specialist schools and Barnsley College. Each position is for a two-year seat on the Youth Council.

The Targeted Youth Support Service (TYSS) has written to schools and Barnsley College and have offered to make visits to explain what the role entails and are now looking for potential candidates.

Once candidates have been identified, they will work with them to develop their campaign literature and manifesto for use during the election period and will support them throughout the entire process. 

Once the successful candidates are elected, the Youth Councillors are supported by TYSS to ensure that young people within our borough can have their views listened to and have an influence over decisions made. This is in line with Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child which states that all young people have the right to express their views, feelings and wishes in all matters affecting them, and to have their views considered and taken seriously.

Cllr Trevor Cave, Cabinet Spokesperson for Children’s Services, said: “Being a Youth Councillor is a great opportunity for our young people to be empowered, represented and included in decision making for future services for young people on a local, regional and national level.”

Young people who live in Barnsley but do not attend school or college in the borough may still be eligible to get involved.

Anyone with an enquiry about becoming a Youth Councillor can the team on 01226 753406 or email youthcouncil@barnsley.gov.uk.

For more information about the work of the Youth Council, visit barnsley.gov.uk/services/our-council/youth-council /  or watch our fantastic video.