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BBC Children in Need Youth Leadership Programme 2027–2028

BBC Children in Need Youth Leadership Programme 2027–2028

Applications Now Open

Are you aged 14-17 and passionate about making a difference? The BBC Children in Need Youth Leadership Programme, delivered by HUDL Youth Development Agency, is now recruiting its next group of young leaders from across the UK.

This exciting two-year programme will bring together 15 young people from January 2027 to December 2028, offering the chance to develop leadership skills, meet other young people from across the UK, and influence the work of BBC Children in Need.

What You’ll Do

Year 1: Build your confidence and leadership skills through training, workshops and support.

Year 2: Work alongside BBC Children in Need, helping to shape and influence how they engage with and support young people.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply if you:

  • Are aged 14-17
  • Live in the UK
  • Take part in social action through a BBC Children in Need-funded project
  • Were not part of the first Youth Leadership Programme cohort

We’re looking for young people who want to make a difference in their communities. You might already volunteer, support other young people, help run activities, or speak up for your peers. You don’t need to think of yourself as a leader yet.

What’s Included?

Participants will receive:

  • Online sessions on weekday evenings and some weekends
  • In-person gatherings approximately every three months
  • A summer residential experience
  • Tickets to the BBC Children in Need Night of TV
  • Regular one-to-one support from the HUDL team
  • Travel, food and accommodation expenses covered

The programme is completely free to take part in.

Important Information

  • Parent or carer consent is required to apply.
  • If a young person from your project is offered a place, the project will be notified.
  • The programme aims to include young people from all four nations of the UK.

Key Dates

  • Applications close: Sunday 15 November 2026, 11:59pm
  • Shortlisted applicant chats: Week commencing 23 November 2026
  • All applicants notified: By 1 December 2026
  • Programme begins: January 2027

How to Apply

Young people can apply in whichever way suits them best:

  • Written application
  • Voice note
  • Video application

 

  • Opportunity overview: [here]
  • Opportunity overview (Welsh): [here]
  • Application form: [here]
  • Meet the first group (short videos from our alumni): [here]

Questions?

If you’d like to know more about the programme or need support with an application, please contact Shanaz at HUDL via [email protected].

This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to build confidence, develop leadership skills and help shape the future of youth participation at BBC Children in Need. Don’t miss out!