A new national body for youth leadership and representation has launched “to restore and strengthen young people’s influence in UK policymaking”.
Today, the National Youth Agency (NYA) announced the official launch of Youth Council UK (YCUK), a youth-led initiative developed under its stewardship.
YCUK was established in response to the closure of the British Youth Council in March 2024 and shaped by recommendations from a sector-wide consultation published in April 2025.
YCUK aims to be independent, sustainable and inclusive, and to empower young voices across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the crown dependencies.
A spokesperson for NYA told Civil Society that the intention is for YCUK to become a charity in the future.
Amplifying youth voices nationally
NYA said YCUK’s structure and governance are shaped through a co-design process involving its youth advisory group (YAG) and expert advisory group (EAG).
The YAG consists of young people aged 16-25 with lived experience, while the EAG is made up of sector professionals offering strategic insight.
YCUK will form an elected executive committee that will play “a central role in shaping national and international priorities”, according to NYA.
This will ensure youth perspectives are heard by the government and decision-makers.
Nominations for the executive committee open in December 2025, with elections scheduled for January 2026.
Members will serve two-year terms, with young ambassadors (international) serving three years.
“The council is politically party-neutral and values lived experience and enthusiasm over formal qualifications,” NYA said.
“YCUK complements local youth councils by amplifying youth voices nationally. Local bodies can engage through partnerships and representation.”
YCUK is urging youth organisations, political youth wings, youth councils and any bodies where young people hold decision-making power to become members.
Membership fees are tiered by organisational turnover, with full membership beginning in April 2026. An initial joining fee of £50 applies.
‘A new precedent for UK youth leadership’
Esther Horner-Aird, strategic youth voice lead at NYA, said: “Developing a contemporary youth council for the UK has been made possible through the invaluable expertise and support of both advisory groups
“We’re now looking forward to welcoming members who reflect the diverse needs and lived experiences of young people across the four nations and cross dependencies.”
Jasmine Brittan, UK young ambassador and member of YAG, said: “YCUK sets a new precedent for youth leadership in the UK.
“It offers a unique ecosystem where young people from all backgrounds can collaborate on the issues that matter most to them.
“Its collective power will send a clear message to decision-makers about the priorities of UK youth today.”
