{"id":1144432,"date":"2026-08-12T13:52:26","date_gmt":"2026-08-12T13:52:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/1144432\/"},"modified":"2026-08-12T13:52:26","modified_gmt":"2026-08-12T13:52:26","slug":"south-leeds-youngsters-in-running-for-leeds-childrens-mayor","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/1144432\/","title":{"rendered":"South Leeds youngsters in running for Leeds Children’s Mayor"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Dakota from Hunslet Carr Primary School and Libby from St Anthony\u2019s Catholic Primary School in Beeston are amongst 11 candidates for the position of Leeds Children\u2019s Mayor 2026.<\/p>\n

Earlier this year children in Year 5 were encouraged to write a manifesto setting out a project that they would implement if elected by the young people of the city. Each manifesto address one Leeds\u2019 12 Wishes for a Child Friendly Leeds<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Dakota addressed Wish 1: Children and young people know how and where to get support for their mental health and wellbeing if they need it.<\/p>\n

\n\"\"<\/a>Dakota<\/p>\n

Many schools in Leeds have wellbeing teams, learning mentors and activities that help children look after their mental health. There is also MindMate, which gives advice and support to children, young people and families.<\/p>\n

These things work well because they give children safe places to talk and ask for help.<\/p>\n

One of my ideas to improve is something we do in our school. \u201cCrew time\u201d is an opportunity for a class to come together and discuss feelings. It can include a \u201csunny check-in\u201d where children share how they are feeling. I think having more time to talk about worries would help some children feel happier and less alone.<\/p>\n

Leeds could support schools by organising more wellbeing workshops, putting up posters about where children can get help and creating opportunities for school councils to share ideas about mental health, such as forums.<\/p>\n

Children can feel worried, lonely or stressed, and other times they might not know who to talk to. I would like to try and help children all around Leeds know where they can get support if they need it, other than their schools. Mental health is an important part of our wellbeing because it affects how we think, feel and cope with everyday life. Even if it is just talking to a trusted adult, sharing worries with a friend or taking part in a calming activity, these are all ways to support mental health. Even if it is a small thing, it can still help.<\/p>\n

Kindness is one of the most important tools that everyone has. By encouraging initiatives, we can help create a kinder and more inclusive environment for everyone.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Libby\u2019s manifesto links to Wish 12: Leeds is an inclusive city for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.<\/p>\n

\n\"\"<\/a>Libby<\/p>\n

In Leeds, children with special educational needs and disabilities can find it difficult to take part in sports. Even though there are some fantastic opportunities available, not everyone knows about them or can easily access them. This can make children feel like they don\u2019t belong and stop them from being active and enjoying the same experiences as their friends.<\/p>\n

I believe every child should have the chance to be active, make friends, build confidence and experience the world of sport. I know my own confidence has grown since taking part in new physical activities.<\/p>\n

Leeds already has some amazing organisations that support inclusive sport, including the Leeds United Foundation, Leeds Rhinos Foundation and Leeds Riding for the Disabled, and others. I have been lucky enough to take part in some of these!<\/p>\n

I think we could do even more in schools and across Leeds:<\/p>\n