Make Your Mark

Leigh On Sea News: Make Your Mark – FULL of energy, ambition and optimism, young members of the Southend Youth Council are keen to get the word out about the transformative ‘Make Your Mark’ campaign, which returns from 2 February to 6 March 2026.
Make Your Mark is the UK’s biggest youth ballot which encourages 11 to 18 year-olds to cast their vote on the issues that matter most to their age group. Secondary schools, colleges and alternative education providers have been invited to participate.
At the 2024 ballot, an impressive 9,978 young people across Southend took part, placing the city second nationally for turnout. Their top priorities were health and wellbeing, culture, media and sport, and crime and safety.
Once the votes were in, real change followed, directly shaping youth campaigns, services and engagement across the city.
This includes the Neurodivergent Support Pack, which has trained more than 1,000 professionals across the East of England, the Red Relief Scheme providing free period products in 13 venues across Southend, a Violence Against Women and Girls awareness event, and a vibrant HAF summer programme offering activities from roller skating and beach exploration to sound baths and self‑defence.
Coun Laurie Burton, cabinet member for children, young people and SEND, said: “Every time our young people take part in Make Your Mark, they show Southend and the whole country just how engaged, thoughtful and passionate they are.
“Nearly 10,000 young people had their say in 2024, and the impact of their choices can already be seen in the projects and services we’ve delivered since.
“Make Your Mark isn’t just a ballot, it’s a reminder that young people understand their city, care deeply about its future, and have powerful ideas about what needs to change. We are incredibly proud of their leadership, and we hope even more young people will get involved this year.”
The 2026 ballot has once again been shaped by local young people, ensuring the issues reflect what matters most to them.
A council statement said: “You, too, can help drive forward meaningful change.
“Cast your vote through your secondary school, college, youth group and alternative education provider during the ballot window… it only takes 30 seconds to vote!
“To learn more, visit the Youth Voice stand at Youth Fest on 14 February at the Victoria Shopping Centre, and explore the Make Your Mark website.”
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