Article 12 of the United Nations' Rights of a Child states that children and young people have the right to be involved in decisions that affect their lives.
The role of the Children’s Council
Our Children's Council is dedicated to making sure that children's voices are heard and their opinions are valued.
The Children's Council works closely with local authorities, schools, and community organisations to make sure that the needs and rights of children are prioritised.
Members of the Children's Council are involved in various initiatives and projects aimed at improving the quality of life for children in the borough.
How to join
If you’re aged between 8 and 11 years old you can get involved with the Children's Council. We meet monthly at the Matthew Moss Youth Centre in Rochdale. New members are always welcome.
To find out more, get in touch using the contact details on this page.
Our Children's Champions
Children's Champions and Deputies are elected to speak on behalf of children from all over the borough of Rochdale and work to improve lives and services for children.
Children's Champions need commitment, lots of energy, enthusiasm, and time to work hard in getting children’s voices heard
Our 2025-2026 Children's Champions, Amelia and Téa, pledge to:
- Campaign for free school meals for all children.
- Establish eco ambassador teams to help make the planet cleaner and healthier.
- Introduce worry boxes and happy jars in schools.
- Promote friendship benches to support mental health and wellbeing.
- Support people who don’t feel heard.
- Help the borough to victory and raise pride in Rochdale.
- Promote the use of local libraries.
- Introduce new Green Cross Code activities.
- Listen to everyone’s voices.
- Make positive changes.
Children's Champion elections
Elections take place in schools and youth clubs across the borough.
Applications for Children’s Champions and Deputies for 2025-2026 are now closed. We’ll aim to update this page in March 2026 with information about the next elections.