Northumberland Youth Cabinet

Elections are held every year, usually in February. In each election, two places for deputy members are available. In their second year, they become full members. 
 
Young people are encouraged to look on this website, and at school, for application forms. Using this form, young people can nominate themselves to be potential members of the youth parliament. 
 
They’ll also have to think about issues to include in their manifesto. This should be based on what they feel is most important in Northumberland. After they have finished their manifestos, there is time dedicated to campaigning for votes. 
 
On election day, students across Northumberland go to the ballot box and cast their vote. The votes are then brought together and the two candidates with the highest number are elected. 
 
The official term begins in March. Members get the chance to attend events, such as local and regional Youth Voice events and providing views of young people to senior officials and Councillors.

How old do I have to be to vote?
Young people aged 11-19 years old are eligible to vote.

How old do I have to be to stand as a candidate?
Young people aged 11-19 years old can stand for election; standing for election means you are attempting to win votes in order to be elected as a member of the youth cabinet. Candidates must live in, work in, or attend education in Northumberland.

How long are cabinet members elected for?
Members of the youth cabinet serve a term of two years.

Where can I vote?
Ballot boxes are placed in participating middle, special, secondary and high schools, as well as alternative education providers. If you’re not in school, please contact us to get information on how and where to vote. 
Email: participation@northumberland.gov.uk

How does voting work and who is elected? 
Everyone eligible to vote in the youth cabinet can do so at their local polling station, such as your school. Each voter has one vote and the five candidates with the most votes are elected. This voting system is known as ‘first past the post’. 

How many people are in the youth cabinet of Northumberland?
The cabinet is made up of 10 members. 

How often are the elections?
Elections are held every year, to elect five new people to the youth cabinet. 

How do people put themselves forward to run in elections?
Keep checking our social media pages, or alternatively, contact us to register your interest:

• Telephone: 01670 536400
• Email: participation@northumberland.gov.uk
• Postal address: Northumberland Youth Cabinet, Northumberland Youth Service, Northumbria House, Manor Walks, Cramlington, NE23 6UR
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