The council’s youth service has officially launched a search for candidates to stand in the Shadow Youth Cabinet elections. The aim of the Youth Cabinet is to give young people aged 13 to 25 across Sandwell the opportunity to represent their peers, air their views and influence changes in local government and other organisations which will improve services for young people. Young people are also being asked if they would like to represent Sandwell in the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP elections).

A voice at a local and national level
Cabinet Member for children and young people, Cllr Ian Jones, said: “We believe in the right of young people to have a voice at a local and national level, and to be represented by young people who can express and share the views of their peers. I hope that young people across Sandwell will be inspired to stand as candidates.  Local politics affect everyone, no matter what their age or background, and young people now have the opportunity to influence what goes on at a local level by standing as a candidate to represent the views of local young people. I look forward to working closely with the successful Shadow Youth Cabinet members.”

Where will the elections be held?
The elections will be held in March 2010 in settings such as schools, youth services and voluntary organisations – where candidate nomination forms are available to ensure all young people have a chance to take part in voting.

A brilliant experience!
Jessica Masaun, Chair of Sandwell’s Youth Cabinet, said, “I would seriously recommend running in the Youth Cabinet & UKYP elections to all young people. It is a brilliant experience, extremely rewarding, a great way to meet new friends and people who want to make a difference and, most importantly, loads of fun! It has provided me with loads of opportunities to improve my confidence and skills, and to represent Sandwell both locally and nationally.”

Election Timescale
The deadline for applications is 15th January 2010 and Expression of Interest Forms are available on http://justyouth.org.uk/news_view.php?n=51

In January 2010 candidates will be trained in the skills to stand for election, including writing manifestos. Elections will take place from 1st-4th March 2010, and results will be announced on Friday 5th March.

For more information
For details contact the Sandwell Active Youth involvement Team on 0845 352 7532/41; or e-mail tariq_karim@sandwell.gov.uk; or visit http://justyouth.org.uk/news_view.php?n=51 to download a Expression of Interest Form.