Nominations run until 30 November 2012 and all elected candidates will serve for a two year term.
Young people are being urged to stand for election as one of Richmond’s representatives on the UK Youth Parliament or as their local Youth Councillor.
Those who want to influence the key decisions affecting under-19s in the borough can put their name forward for either position.
Both the UK Youth Parliament and local Youth Council aim to provide young people with a greater understanding of the democratic process and empower them to participate in society as active, informed and responsible citizens.
Elected representatives will be supported by Richmond Youth Service and receive training to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to run campaigns and debates on behalf of local young people to ensure their views are listened to by decision-makers.
Nominations run until 30 November 2012 and all elected candidates will serve for a two year term.
Councillor Christine Percival, Strategic Cabinet Member for Education, Youth and Children’s Services on Richmond Council, said: “With so many changes happening in national and local government, this is the perfect time for young people who are passionate about local issues to put themselves forward as the spokespeople for their generation.
“These roles carry a big responsibility, but with that there is the chance to have a real impact on decision-making.
“I am pleased that for the first time ever we will also have a democratically elected Youth Council, ensuring that members are representative of the whole borough.”
Councillor Percival added that there is traditionally a lot of interest in our Youth Elections, with more than 6,500 young people voting at the last elections in 2010.
“With the Youth Council elections at the same time, I hope that even more will participate this year. I would encourage anyone interested to put themselves forward before the closing date for nominations,” Councillor Percival said.
Anyone aged between 11 and 19 who lives or is educated in the borough may stand for nomination.
To apply candidates will need to complete a short application form available online, from all secondary schools in the borough or from local youth centres.
After nominations there will be a campaign and voting period, with the declaration of results announced on the 20 March 2013.
Two youth parliament members will be elected, along with a deputy.
For information on the Richmond Youth Parliament Member role or the Richmond Youth Council, visit the Youth Voice page or contact Michael Connor on [email protected] or call 020 8288 7511.
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