Havering youth representatives to champion mental health and careers

Meadow Thompson, 15, and Dominic Bacon, 14, have been elected as the new Havering representatives for the UK Youth Parliament. The announcement followed a competitive election held at Havering Town Hall, where six candidates from the Havering Youth Council vied for the two available positions.

The selection process began with 17 initial applicants, eventually narrowed down to the final six. During the election, each candidate delivered a two-minute presentation to their peers, outlining their priorities for the borough’s younger residents. The voting process was conducted among members of the youth council, emphasizing peer-to-peer representation.

Mental health and career opportunities top the agenda

Thompson and Bacon have identified mental health support in schools as a primary focus for their one-year term. Their platform also emphasizes expanding opportunities within the arts and improving work experience programs for students entering the workforce. Thompson expressed a desire to make an immediate impact across the borough, while Bacon noted the importance of ensuring young people’s voices are heard by decision-makers.

This local focus on youth advocacy mirrors broader regional trends, such as when West Northamptonshire appointed a new cohort of young leaders to influence council services and represent local interests. Both Havering members intend to maintain a direct dialogue with the wider Youth Council to ensure their advocacy remains grounded in the concerns of their constituents.

Civic leadership and local representation

Tara Geere, Havering’s Director of Children’s Services, highlighted the importance of integrating youth perspectives into civic life. The appointment provides a formal channel for the borough’s children and young people to share their views on a national stage through the UK Youth Parliament framework.

The new members will spend the coming months meeting with local officials and supporting their peers through various civic initiatives. Their term lasts for one year, during which they will represent Havering at national youth debates and local policy consultations.

Source: London Borough of Havering