General Elections: 2015

The general elections are fast approaching, and there are concerns that younger generations shall again not participate. In the last general election, less than half of 18- to 24-year-olds voted. Work by Eurobarmeter has suggested that young British adults are the least engaged with the political process when comparing their peers across Europe. But why is this?

Young people do not only vote less, but research by the Electoral Commission suggests they are less likely to be on the electoral register compared to other age groups.

Over 65s are making up a larger proportion of the electorate, and they are more likely to vote. As a result they have a disproportionately large influence on the election outcome, which is damaging to the country as essentially their needs do not best fit the majority.

Current polls show that younger people are much more likely to back Concervative and Greens compared to other age groups. Those that choose not to vote feel that policies and manifestos do not target and benefit them, so this makes young people feel there is no reason or need for their vote. Although, Labour member Ed Miliband recently released statements that they will cut tuition fees.

There is serious risk of younger generations losing sight of the importance of voting, as each individual has been brought up in a society that allows equal rights to all voters, they are not taking advantage of voting. Concerns surround the education system, as some young non-voters simply do not understand politics and it’s importance. UK Schools are not required to teach Government and Politics, and many don’t. Young people leave school with minimal to no knowledge of how the country is run, and what their influence and role is in the elections.

If younger people did vote, it would mean each party would focus on attempting to secure their vote, and issues that are beneficial to them shall be manifested. Essentially, our interest shall promote change in our futures.

To be able to vote, you have to register. The more traditional system of registering involved filling out a form and sending it to the local council. Alternatively, a new system has been brought in, by registering quickly online. This updated system was created so that registering can be modernised and faster.

To cast your vote you visit your nearest polling station, which is usually a local school or church. You will receive your polling card in the post, which shall tell you where your local polling station is, you bring the card with you to cast your vote.

If you decide to vote by post, you will need to complete a form online, which can be found at aboutmyvote.co.uk. Postal vote packs are sent around a week before Election Day and need to be sent back to arrive before 10pm on Election Day.

To make voting easier you should independently research what each party’s policies is for the election. Each party shall be putting forward policies in their bid to win the election, see which policies are most beneficial to you and the country.

Register to vote here: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote