Leeds SEND Youth Council

Young people working together to improve SEND services.

The Leeds SEND Youth Council is a group of young people aged 11 to 25 years old with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who live in Leeds or attend school in Leeds.

What is involved What are the benefits
  • A group of young people aged 11 to 25 years old with special educational needs and disabilities in Leeds.
  • They meet twice a month online or in person.  
  • They work on campaigns and projects they are passionate about.  
  • Different teams and services from across the city visit the group, provide information and seek their views about what is happening in Leeds for young people with SEND.
  • There are opportunities to take part in other youth voice opportunities to influence SEND services in Leeds.
  • Learn about and contribute to improving SEND services for young people in Leeds.
  • Learn new skills and build new friendships.
  • Share ideas and experiences with decision makers.
  • Have your say and make a difference!
Leeds SEND Youth Forum

Joining the Leeds SEND Youth Council

 

If you would like to join the Leeds SEND Youth Council or would like any further information email the Voice, Influence and Change team at vic@leeds.gov.uk.

We encourage all young people interested in joining the Leeds SEND Youth Council to follow Leeds Youth Voice on Instagram to find out about youth voice sessions, opportunities and events. 

Involvement and Achievements

To find out what the SEND Youth Council have been involved in click on the below links.

We have developed case studies to share with you the work of the Leeds SEND Youth Council. Click here to download the case studies.

For more information about the SEND Youth Council email VIC@leeds.gov.uk

SEND Youth Council Campaigns

Raising awareness of disabilities and how to support young people (resource)

The SEND Youth Council have worked together to create a booklet of various journeys and challenges of young people with SEND to help you help us!

The resource is not just about knowing how you can support young people, but to understand how we might perceive and feel during these experiences.

Click here to watch an introduction to the resource from the SEND Youth Council

Click here to download the resource

For further information or any questions about the resource please email VIC@leeds.gov.uk

 

Disability Pride 

Every July, Leeds SEND Youth Council helps celebrate Disability Pride Month.

In July 2026, young people from the Youth Council held an event called This Is Us: Proud to Belong at Leeds Kirkgate Market. More than 150 people came along to celebrate, have fun and meet others.

The event included music, dancing, crafts, games and activities. It was a chance for children, young people and families to come together, make friends and feel proud of who they are.

The day helped create a strong sense of belonging and showed that everyone is welcome in Leeds.

Read the report to find out more about the event and what people said about it.

Photo gallery

Photos coming soon