Information for the Bristol Youth Elections 2026, how to stand as a candidate, and how to register your school or youth organisation as a polling station.
In January 2026 young people in schools, colleges and youth centres across Bristol will be voting in the members of Bristol City Youth Council for a 2 year term of office.
How the vote works
For the youth vote Bristol is divided into three areas:
- North
- South
- East Central
Each area will vote and elect their Bristol City Youth Council (BCYC) representatives.
How long is the term office
The representive will be elected across the city for a two year term of office.
The role of the elected representatives
The representatives that are voted in will represent views and opinions of young people of Bristol.
This to make sure that the views of young people are heard by adult decision makers, and influence policy decisions they make.
When are the candidate nominations
Nominations open: Monday 1 October to 31 October 2025.
How young people can stand as a candidate
Young people must be 11 to 18 years old to stand as a candidate.
If you have young people that want to stand as a Candidates they must be:
- pdf read the information booklet(2.64 MB)
- fill in the information booklet's nomination form and email it ywparticipation@bristol.gov.uk
How to register as a polling station
To register your school, college or Youth Project as a polling station you must:
- download the document polling station letter(93 KB) for information
- fill in the reply slip
- email the completed slip to ywparticipation@bristol.gov.uk
Read our pdf guidance booklet(225 KB) on how to run the election in your school, collellege, or youth origination.
You can also download and use our pdf Bristol Youth Vote poster(459 KB) .