LUCY Allan, a student at Huntcliff School, has been elected as the new Member of Youth Parliament for Redcar and Cleveland.
Lucy was chosen from four candidates during a ceremony held on Tuesday 17 February. Isabella Haigh, from Prior Pursglove College, was elected as Deputy Member of Youth Parliament.
They will represent the voices of young people across the borough.
Speaking about her goals for the role, Lucy said: “I believe the education system needs a serious update and I want to be the person who drives change towards improvement. Around one in seven students are neurodivergent. That's four or five people in every classroom. Yet, the system still expects everyone to learn at the same pace and in the same style. I'll be a voice for every student who doesn't fit the mould.”
Lucy will take over from current Youth MP Sophie Bloomfield, whose two‑year term comes to an end in March 2026.
Sophie said: “A warm congratulations to Lucy for being elected. It was an honour to be in this role for two years and I’m thankful for all the support I have received during this time. For the next month I will be working together with Lucy to make sure her transition into this role is as smooth as possible.”
Cllr Bill Suthers, Cabinet Member for Children, said: “I would like to congratulate Lucy for being elected in her new role as Member of Youth Parliament and Isabella for being elected as Deputy Member. All four candidates have shown determination to represent their peers and make a difference. I am looking forward to seeing Lucy achieving her ambitions and becoming a strong voice for our young people.
“I would also like to express my thanks to Sophie for the incredible work she has done during her term. She is the perfect example that our young people are hard‑working, determined and a credit to our area, and I am sure she has a bright future ahead.”
Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, Cllr Alec Brown, said: “I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Lucy on her election as our new Member of Youth Parliament and to Isabella for becoming Deputy. Lucy’s ambition to champion a more inclusive education system is inspiring.
“We are incredibly proud of all our young representatives, who show time and again that they have the drive and vision to shape a brighter future for Redcar and Cleveland.”