Cornwall’s Largest Youth Elections Underway with 17,000 Votes Expected

Cornwall has commenced voting for its biggest ever youth elections. Aimed at electing 12 members to the newly restructured Cornwall Youth Council, the elections are taking place across 17 schools and five college campuses, with an anticipated 17,000 votes being cast.

This significant electoral event is not only about choosing representatives for the Cornwall Youth Council but also involves a national vote called “Make Your Mark”. This initiative seeks to understand the most pressing issues for young people in the UK. The Cornwall Youth Council, functioning under Cornwall Council, is dedicated to ensuring that the voices of children and young people are heard and taken seriously, aligning with the principles of Article 12 of the UNCRC.

Cornwall Council’s Children’s Rights team is actively encouraging participation in the elections. They are reaching out to young people in all communities to vote, supported by their teachers, parents, and carers. Cllr Barbara Ellenbroek, cabinet member for children and families at Cornwall Council, expressed her enthusiasm about the youth council’s role in shaping Cornwall’s future for its younger population. She urged everyone involved, including teachers and parents, to assist in making this a successful election.

The restructuring of the youth council, aimed at enhancing geographic and diversity representation, includes electing 12 young people from the six constituent areas of Cornwall. To ensure fairness and impartiality, all candidates remain anonymous, with young people voting based on manifesto summaries. Following these elections, Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) will be elected by the newly chosen council members.

From March 2024, a variety of roles will be available within the youth council, including community seats, associate members, peer mentors, and a communications team. These positions are designed to foster greater involvement and ensure that the council’s activities are well-communicated and inclusive.

Cllr Ellenbroek said: “Cornwall Youth Council is a brilliant organisation that makes a real difference in shaping the future of Cornwall for children and young people. “I hope everyone has fun reading the manifestos of the candidates and finding out what each stands for before casting their vote. I’d also urge all the teachers, mums, dads and carers out there to do whatever they can to help make Cornwall’s biggest ever youth election a huge success.”

The elections represent a significant opportunity for young people to engage in democracy. The council is also encouraging 16–18-year-olds to register as “attainers” on the electoral roll, ensuring they are automatically enrolled to vote upon turning 18. To find out more and to register follow this link: Register to vote – GOV.UK

For more information, interested parties are invited to contact youthcouncil@cornwall.gov.uk, visit the British Youth Council website, or explore Cornwall Council’s web pages dedicated to children’s rights.