Havering elects new youth representatives to champion mental health

Liam O'Connor Author 2026-05-21 17:12 2 min read

A group of young men sitting at a wooden table in a meeting or classroom setting.

Contents

Priorities for the year ahead
Strengthening the youth voice in local governance

Meadow Thompson, 15, and Dominic Bacon, 14, have been elected to represent the London Borough of Havering in the UK Youth Parliament. The results were confirmed at Havering Town Hall following a competitive election process that saw six candidates from the Havering Youth Council stand for the roles.

The election followed an initial phase where 17 young residents put themselves forward for the positions. During the final vote, candidates were tasked with delivering a two-minute address to their peers, outlining the specific issues they intend to prioritize during their term.

Priorities for the year ahead

The successful candidates focused their platforms on three primary areas of concern for local young people: mental health support within schools, the expansion of opportunities in the arts, and the development of more robust work experience programs. Meadow Thompson expressed her readiness to begin the role, noting her desire to make a tangible difference across the borough. Dominic Bacon highlighted his commitment to representing the diverse voices of his peers over the coming months.

Both representatives confirmed they will work directly with the Havering Youth Council to ensure the concerns of local students are integrated into their work at a national level. The elected members will serve a one-year term, acting as a bridge between the youth of Havering and the UK Youth Parliament.

Havering elects new youth representatives to champion mental health

Strengthening the youth voice in local governance

Tara Geere, Director of Children’s Services, noted that the appointment of the new members is a vital component of hearing the perspectives of the younger generation. Geere emphasized that these roles allow Havering’s children to share their views both within the borough and beyond, providing a formal channel for civic engagement.

The new members are expected to begin their journey through civic life immediately, meeting with local officials and attending national sessions to advocate for the policy improvements outlined in their election speeches. Their term concludes in one year, during which they will remain accountable to the Havering Youth Council and the wider student population.

Source: London Borough of Havering