Vote at the elections

Why it’s important to vote and how to

Five reasons why young people should vote

1. Some of the biggest election issues directly affect young people
2. If every young person aged 18-25 voted, it would change the outcome of the General Election
3. If you don’t vote, you have no right to complain
4. Vote because you can
5. Politicians will take more notice of young people’s views

Individual Electoral Registration

You can register to vote if you are aged 16 or over, although you cannot vote until you are 18, and:

• a British citizen
• a citizen of the Republic of Ireland or other European Union member states
• a citizen of a British Overseas Territory or a Commonwealth country

The way we register to vote has changed.

What is different about the new system?

The new system means:

• Every individual will be responsible for their own registration. Under the old system, the ‘head of household’ was responsible for registering everyone who lived at the address.
• You will need to provide ‘identifying information’ about yourself to register – including your National Insurance number and your date of birth.
• You are now able to register online or by telephoning 01255 686566.

Why has the system changed?

Individual electoral registration is being introduced nationally to help tackle electoral fraud and enable online registration, which will make it easier and more convenient for you to ensure that you are registered to vote.

How do I register under the new system?

• Go to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
• Fill in your name, address, date of birth and a few other details.  You’ll also need your national insurance number, which can be found on your national insurance card, or in official paperwork such as payslips, or letters about benefits or tax credits.
• Look out for a confirmation letter from Tendring’s Electoral Services to say you’re registered.