Twenty residents aged 11 to 18 have been elected to the West Northamptonshire Youth Council for the 2026–2027 term. This new cohort, working alongside three newly appointed Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs), is tasked with ensuring the perspectives of the younger generation are integrated into local government decisions and service planning.
Youth representation and strategic priorities
The program is delivered through a partnership between West Northamptonshire Council and Clubs for Young People Northamptonshire. The Youth Council serves as a formal advisory body, focusing on issues that directly impact young residents, including mental health support, community safety, education standards, and access to local career opportunities.
The new term officially began on 1 April 2026, with members already participating in induction sessions to define their core objectives. These representatives meet regularly to contribute to local consultations and plan initiatives that address the specific needs of their peers across the region.
Key initiatives for the 2026-2027 term
Over the next twelve months, the Youth Council will lead several community-focused projects designed to increase civic engagement. These include:
- Youth Takeover Day: An opportunity for members to experience roles within local government first-hand.
- Cake and Debate: Informal sessions aimed at discussing policy issues in an accessible environment.
- Young Inspectors Programme: A scheme where young people evaluate local services and provide feedback for improvement.
- Youth Bank: A project focused on the allocation of resources for youth-led community activities.
Councillors are also expected to collaborate with specific West Northamptonshire Council departments to address practical concerns, such as improving local transport networks for students and shaping the variety of activities available during half-term breaks.
National representation in the House of Commons
Alongside the local council, three representatives—Imogen, Chanel, and Laila—have been elected as Members of Youth Parliament. Their roles extend beyond the county, as they are tasked with representing West Northamptonshire on both a regional and national stage.
As part of the UK Youth Parliament, these MYPs will take part in national campaigns and attend debates. A key highlight of their term includes the opportunity to speak in the House of Commons, ensuring that the specific challenges and successes of West Northamptonshire’s youth are heard by national policymakers. Residents interested in youth engagement activities or future elections can contact the coordination team via the council’s dedicated youth engagement email.
Source: West Northamptonshire Council
/linkComments