In the last UK General Election, only 54.5% of 18–34-year-olds turned out to vote. This is significantly lower compared to the 78.5% turnout of the over 65s. These statistics highlight the need for greater youth engagement in the electoral process as it’s crucial that the concerns of the entire population are represented in our government.
The Centre for Leadership is dedicated to empowering and supporting Gen Z and Millennials to ensure they are aware, informed, comfortable, and motivated to use their vote in the upcoming General Election on 4 July.
Why is it important to vote
Voting is a fundamental right and a cornerstone of democracy. Here are a few reasons why it’s crucial for young people to vote:
Shape Your Future: Elections determine who makes important decisions about education, employment, housing, healthcare, and more. Voting gives you a say in these critical issues.
Make Your Voice Heard: Young people represent a significant portion of the population. Your vote ensures that your concerns are considered.
Close Election Results: Many elections are decided by a small margin. Your vote could be the deciding factor.
Civic Duty: Voting is a way to honour those who fought for democratic rights and to contribute to your community and country.
Who is eligible to vote
To be eligible to vote in a General Election, you must meet the following criteria:
Be registered in your constituency. (Find you constituency here)
Be 18 years old or over on the 4 July
Be a British citizen, a qualifying Commonwealth citizen, or a citizen of the Republic of Ireland.
Not be disqualified due to any legal incapacity.
How to register to vote
Registering to vote in the UK is straightforward and can be done online. Here’s how:
Deadlines: The deadline to register to vote is at 11:59pm on Tuesday 18th June.
How to vote
Voting in Person
Find your Polling Station: You’ll receive a poll card in the post with the location of your polling stations. Polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm on election day.
ID Requirements: You must bring a valid form of ID to vote. Accepted forms of ID include passport, driving license, or an electoral identity card. Chec the full list of acceptable IDs on the Electoral Commission website.
No ID? No Problem: If you don’t have a valid ID, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. Visit the government website here for more information and to apply.
At the Polling Station: Provide your name and address to staff, show your ID and recieve a ballot paper containing a list of candidates.
Filling in your ballot paper: Follow the instructions on the notices in the polling booth and on the ballot paper. Vote accordingly.
Postal Votes
Application: You can apply for a postal vote via the Government website: You’ll need the address where you are registered to vote, national insurance number (or other identity document such as passport) and a photo of your handwritten signature in black ink on white paper (If you cannot provide a consistent signature, you may be able to apply for a postal vote signature waiver within the service.) If you cannot apply online, download and fill in a postal vote application form. Send it to your local Electoral Registration Office or contact your local Electoral Registration Office who can post you a paper form.
Deadlines to apply: Online by 5pm on 19 June 2024 or by post, you must get your postal vote application to your local Electoral Registration Office by 5pm on 19 June 2024.
After you have applied, you will receive a letter via email confirming your postal vote if the application was completed correctly or they will request further information.
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