Young people driving change across West Northants
12 November 2026
Young people in West Northamptonshire are helping make a difference in their communities through the West Northamptonshire Youth Council, with a new report highlighting what has been achieved since it was re-established in 2024.
The report, presented to West Northamptonshire Council's Cabinet, shows how young people have helped shape local decisions, contributed to council plans and services, and spoken up on behalf of their peers at local, regional and national level.
The Youth Council was set up again after a 19-year gap in formal youth representation in the area. Since then, it has become an important way for young people to share their views and work directly with councillors, council leaders and partner organisations.
Over the past two years, Youth Councillors have taken part in elections, meetings, consultations, events and community projects. They have helped raise issues that matter most to young people, including mental health and wellbeing, community safety, public transport, jobs and skills, access to information, and having a greater say in local decisions.
The Youth Council also helped shape West Northamptonshire Council's Youth Strategy, making sure the experiences and views of young people were reflected in plans for future services and support.
Councillor Michael Stratton, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said: "The achievements of the Youth Council over the last two years have been fantastic. Young people have shown real commitment and leadership in representing their peers and helping to shape decisions that affect communities across West Northamptonshire.
"Bringing back youth representation shows how important it is that we listen to young people and give them a voice in decisions that affect them. I would like to thank all of the Youth Councillors, schools, partner organisations and staff who have supported this work."
The report also highlights the benefits for the young people involved. Through the Youth Council, members have developed confidence, communication and leadership skills, while gaining experience of how decisions are made and how local government works.
Looking ahead, the Council and its partners want to build on this success by continuing annual Youth Council elections, supporting more youth-led events, and creating new opportunities through programmes such as Youth Bank and Young Inspectors. Read the full report on WNC's website.