Young People In Derbyshire Go To The Polls This Week

7th March 2018 Claire Meese

On Monday 5 voting opened for the county’s next Derbyshire Youth Council.

The Big Vote election is held by Derbyshire County Council every two years and gives 11 to 18-year-olds the chance to campaign for an opportunity to represent young people.

This year, 80 young people are competing for a place on the youth council, representing secondary schools, special schools, support centres, 11-19 colleges and children in care.

The Cabinet Member for Young People Councillor Alex Dale said:

“It’s a very exciting time for young people across Derbyshire − they’ll be able to vote for the next Derbyshire Youth Council from today.

“Our youth councillors get to have their say on things that affect young people, make their views known to top-level-decision-makers and influence big decisions.

“I’m delighted to hear that so many people have put themselves forward for election and I’d like to wish everyone the best of luck.”

Those standing have been campaigning for votes up until Friday 16 February. Voting will take place in schools and colleges from today to Friday 9 March 2018.

Once elected, the Derbyshire Youth Council will be made up of up to 33 youth councillors from across the county who will get to have a say about things affecting young people.

Councillor Dale added:

“I’m urging all young people to vote for the person they want to represent them − and don’t forget that you only have one week to cast your vote.”

Successful candidates will be contacted on Monday 19 March 2018.

View a complete list of schools taking part (opens in a new window).

Young people who don’t want to be a youth councillor or if they stand and don’t get elected can still make their voice heard by joining their local youth forum.

A Derbyshire Youth Councillor will attend their local area youth forum and will then feed back to the full youth council.

There are six youth forum meetings each year in: