Bella Hollings, aged 10, of East Carlton, has been selected as one of the final 12 candidates and voting is currently open. All children aged 18 and under who live and go to school in Leeds are eligible to vote.
Her manifesto focuses on mental health and wellbeing. In it Bella says: “Mental health and wellbeing is important because it affects children and young people in Leeds in different ways. It might make them want to miss school, feel down or feel very lonely. 1 in 5 school-age children or young people has a mental health difficulty (The Big Mental Health Report 2024). This number will increase if we don’t help now.”
Bella Hollings who is standing to become Leeds Children Mayor
Bella’s mum Anna added: “Bella’s manifesto focusses on children’s mental health in Leeds. She’s come up with some great ideas that aim to involve all children and make them feel better about themselves.”
The opportunity to stand for election for Leeds Children Mayor is open to children in Year 5. They write a manifesto which their school submits in June.
The manifestos are shortlisted in July and the final 12 attend a ‘what to expect’ session before campaigning for votes over the summer.
The winner is announced at a celebratory finals night in October before serving a one year term. The winner works with the Voice, Influence and Change team to make their manifesto a reality. They also work with democratic services to attend various events and occasions alongside the Lord Mayor of Leeds.
Bella is one of two candidates in the Leeds North West Ward in the final 12. Mustafa, who attends Ireland Wood Primary School, is also a candidate and his manifesto focuses on climate change.
Both candidates recently had the opportunity to meet Leeds North West MP Katie White, who said: “It was wonderful to talk to these two inspiring young people, who are passionate about fighting climate change and solving our mental health crisis.
“Giving our young people the opportunity to use their voice and advocate for what they believe in is so important and the best way to engage future generations.
“If you’re 18 or under, you can vote for Leeds Children’s Mayor at https://surveys.leeds.gov.uk/s/LCMVoting25/ – don’t forget to pick two of your vote won’t count.
“Good luck to all of the candidates.”
For more information on all the candidates visit www.leeds.gov.uk/childrensmayor
Voting closes at 5pm on Monday, September 29.