Youth Elections 2008

Dozens of Isle of Wight youngsters who want to help change Island life have put their names forward as candidates in the forthcoming Isle of Wight Youth Council (IWYC) elections.

Thirty youngsters are hoping to win a place on the IWYC and eight individuals have put their names down as candidates to become the next Isle of Wight Member of the UK Youth Parliament (MYP). Elections will take place between 26 - 30 November. Young people aged 13 – 21 are invited to vote for a number of candidates from their local area for the Youth Council. For the UKYP the age range is 11-18 and you vote for one candidate. Please click here to view a map of the Island illustrating how it has been broken down into electorial areas.

The IWYC works closely with the Isle of Wight Council making sure that young people's views are taken into account when forming policies and making decisions. The IWYC also lobbies on behalf of young people with regard to issues and projects. In the past year, the IWYC have worked closely with the Council and local town and parish councils. A current campaign is in progress with the aim of reducing the cost of cross-Solent ferry travel for students.

Election of young people, by young people for young people

The elections will be held using a paper ballot in all five high schools, special and private schools and Isle of Wight College. For the first time there will also be a ballot box in the Connexions Centre on Newport High Street for those who are educated at home and those not in education, employment or training. A mail shot has gone out to these groups letting them know when and where they can vote.

Isle of Wight Council Leader David Pugh said "Getting young people interested in politics is something I am passionate about. The Isle of Wight Youth Council plays a key role within the local community and strives to help the council improve local facilities and services for young people. I wish all the candidates the best of luck and look forward to meeting the new members in the coming weeks."