Voting will shortly get under way to choose Hartlepool’s next Youth Representative and young people across the town are being encouraged to take part and make their voices heard.
The Youth Representative is chosen through a youth vote in Hartlepool, and any 12 to 18-year-old who lives in the borough is eligible to stand as a candidate or cast a vote.
The successful candidate will work closely with youth groups, councillors and key decision‑makers to champion the issues that matter most to young people in Hartlepool.
The role includes attending local and regional meetings and contributing to a wide range of projects, campaigns and events.
There are four candidates standing for election in Hartlepool:
- Mayowa Carew
- Oliver Dixon
- Freddie Minton
- Libby Swinbourne
Voting is open for two weeks, from Monday 16 to Monday 30 March. Young people can vote at all Hartlepool’s secondary schools and colleges, where there will be information on the candidates, ballot papers and ballot boxes. The candidates’ manifestos can also be viewed at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/youth-representative-2026
Councillor Melanie Morley, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “Our young people care passionately about Hartlepool and its future.
“Voting to elect their Youth Representative is a powerful way for them to have a voice in helping to shape local decisions – so if you’re a young person in Hartlepool, please make sure you use your vote and have your say.”