Redbridge youth election 2026

Young people aged between 11 to 17 years old, who live or study in Redbridge are now able to nominate themselves to be the next Member of Youth Parliament. Nominations, will close on Monday 10th November. 

The 2026 Youth Election takes place Monday 2 February to Thursday 12 February and the results will be announced at the beginning of March 2026.

Nomination and selection process

  • Complete the Expression of Interest form 
  • You will be emailed a Nomination and parent / carer consent form. 
  • It is essential that on Monday 17 November you attend the Youth Council induction session and the Youth Council meeting - 4.30pm to 6.45pm at the Redbridge Town Hall 
  • Complete and return Nomination and parent / carer consent form by Sunday 16 November. 
  • Manifesto writing pack sent out - date to be confirmed
  • Wednesday 19 November 5pm attend a Manifesto writing workshop online. 
  • Sunday 30 November 5pm deadline for Manifesto submission
  • December Interviews dates to be confirmed
  • 10 Election Candidates announced - date to be confirmed
  • Public Speaking training - face to face session. Date to be confirmed. 

The 2026 Youth Election takes place Monday 2 February to Thursday 12 February and young people aged 11 - 18 can vote at their Redbridge based school, youth project or at the following libraries: including Ilford and Gants Hill. 

Email Youth.Council@redbridge.gov.uk for more information. 

Anusha's Manifesto

I aim to reduce food poverty for young people by promoting programs which advocate policies addressing issues on hunger and free school meals. I will support local food businesses and collaborate with supermarkets, to foster a culture where the community helps by providing nutritious meals, so no young person goes to bed hungry and food waste decreases.
I aspire to reshape the narrative for our youth, by redefining success, prioritising mental health and advocating for education that values creativity and practical skills. I plan to raise awareness of early career exploration paths, create mentoring programs and integrate life skills education. I will make sure young people are aware of how to navigate academic challenges and uncertainties with confidence.
Domestic and child abuse are an ongoing problem for young people in Redbridge. I intend to raise awareness of support systems and promote them in schools, so young people are acquainted with trauma-informed training. I hope to break this cycle by advocating for counselling for perpetrators and fostering healing initiatives; unshackling lives from abuse so every child in Redbridge grows up free from abuse. I hope to become MYP so I can implement these changes in Redbridge; the Borough I call home.

•    To help reduce food poverty and increase awareness of aid for 
families in living crisis.

•    Campaign to create mentoring programs and educate young people about career paths.

•    Educate young people on the channels available to support them
against domestic and child abuse.

Inaaya's Manifesto

As a passionate advocate for the environment, my first action would
be to encourage all schools in Redbridge to become 'Plastic Clever Schools.'
This would significantly reduce plastic consumption and educate
students about the detrimental effects of plastic on the planet. I have
already pioneered this project in my school, witnessing its positive
impact on students, staff and the school environment. As a member
of the Youth Parliament, I pledge to extend this initiative, across all
schools in Redbridge.
I am also passionate about enriching educational experiences for
students. I believe that it is imperative for students to be aware that they can visit
universities earlier in their educational journey, so that they can
make informed decisions about their studies and career paths, rather
than choosing blindly. 
Likewise, young people need to broaden their experiences, cultural understanding, and language skills beyond the classroom. This can be achieved through increasing their awareness of educational trips within the UK and internationally.

•    I pledge to encourage all schools to be Plastic Clever Schools. 

•    I pledge to raise awareness of educational trips and experiences 
for students outside of school.

•    To create awareness of universities so students can make the right educational and career choices.

Yusuf's Manifesto

Redbridge faces a pressing, youth mental health crisis. My strategy encourages all Redbridge Schools to adopt the 'Watch Your Language' program or similar. Implementing a rewards/sanctions system to deter bullying and fostering a positive environment. I'll organise stress-relief and exam workshops, extracurricular activities, and peer mentorship programs. This comprehensive education package will include form time activities, forums, and engaging events to create a mentally healthier Redbridge.
In collaboration with local authorities, schools, ‘CFR’ Ambassadors and police, I'll amplify street safety awareness. Sanctions/rewards programs will target deviant behaviours like vaping and grooming by gangs. Safety measures include partnering with the police, schools and Transport for London to make public transport safer. Teaming up with local businesses, we'll establish certified safe zones with Bystander training programs, with Community Safety. The lighting up of risky areas and implementing cameras will further ensure our youth's safety.
Disadvantaged students bear the brunt of fuel poverty. I'll collaborate with local businesses, support groups, and charities to address this through inclusive opportunities and activities. Utilising Redbridge's social media, I'll promote events, fostering a sense of community. Engagement with Hainault Youth Centre and free opportunity providers will amplify our impact on youth, addressing fuel poverty and fostering inclusivity.

•    I aim to work with schools to inform the youth about ways to better their mental health.

•    I aim to educate the youth to make responsible decisions about what to do when faced with violence.

•    I aim to address child poverty by working with local charities, providing support to young people.

The candidates

Come back in January 2026 to see which 10 young people will be this year's election candidates and read their manifestos and bullet points.