Chance for young people in Newcastle to shape politics

The UK Youth Parliament have launched the annual ‘Make Your Mark’ ballot and members of Newcastle’s Youth Council are urging others to get involved.

Last year over 6,500 ballots were cast in Newcastle alone, with young people voting to locally prioritise mental health and access to mental health services. 

Youth Councillors this year are hoping to raise the bar and are aiming to reach 7000 votes city-wide. They are taking the ballot papers to schools, community groups and events across the city to reach as many young people as possible.

In the ballot the young people will vote for their UK wide priority and their devolved priority, this year they also have the option to name a local priority.

Topics on the ballot include reducing knife crime, protecting the environment and improving mental health services.

The top 5 priorities will then be debated on 8 November on the green benches of the House of Commons by Members of the Youth Parliament.

Cllr Veronica Dunn, cabinet member for education and skills, said: “Make your Mark is a great opportunity for young people in our city to use their voices and have their say on the issues that matter to them.

“We work extremely hard to ensure that children are able to have a voice and influence the decisions we make, and I encourage anyone who is eligible to vote to make sure they complete the ballot and influence the priorities of youth parliament moving forward.”

The ballot runs until Tuesday 8 October. Once the ballot is closed the votes will be counted and Newcastle will declare its city-wide results.

For more information about how you can get involved email youthdemocracygroup@newcastle.gov.uk