West Northamptonshire Council launches Youth Council election and invites young people to stand as candidates

12 January 2026

West Northamptonshire Council, in partnership with Clubs for Young People, have opened nominations for the next West Northants Youth Council, inviting young people to step forward and help shape the future of their community. 

Young people aged 11 to 18 who live, work, study, or volunteer in West Northamptonshire are encouraged to put themselves forward to become Youth Councillors for the 2026 to 2028 term, running from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028. 

Becoming a Youth Councillor offers a unique opportunity to get involved in local democracy, represent the views of peers and influence decisions on issues that matter to young people. Members of the Youth Council meet with key decision‑makers, get involved in events, deliver speeches, take part in debates and ensure the voices of young people are heard at every level. 

The Youth Council is a fully democratic programme made up of elected young representatives. All young people elected are expected to champion the work of the Youth Council, take part in local and regional meetings and events and contribute to policy discussions that reflect the priorities of young people across West Northamptonshire. 

This marks the first stage of the election process, where interested young people can submit their candidacy. To stand for election, applicants must complete the online election form and write a short manifesto outlining why they want to represent their peers. 

This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to step forward, shape conversations that matter to them and influence decision making locally. Our youth councillors gain valuable experience – meeting decision‑makers, leading debates, organising events and championing the views of their peers. 

I would like to extend my thanks to the current youth councillors who have made a huge impact locally with their passion and dedication to their role. They have really put West Northamptonshire on the map at a national level and driven conversations on local topics that matter to young people such as knife crime prevention, online safety and youth employment to name a few.

I encourage any young person with a passion for making a difference to put themselves forward. Your ideas, energy and insight are vital to helping us build a community that works for everyone.

Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader at West Northamptonshire Council

All manifestos submitted by the 23 January 2026 deadline will go forward to a public vote, where young people across West Northamptonshire will choose who they want to represent them. The 20 candidates with the highest number of votes will form the new Youth Council. 

Young people who are interested or anyone who knows someone who may wish to get involved can email [email protected] or submit an application via the online form.