Jamie Jordon - VP Education and Sian Hampson- VP Community and Welfare
With a Snap General Election coming, you should make sure you are registered to vote.
As you are probably aware, a Snap General Election was proposed by the Prime Minister, and voted for in parliament by MPs. This means that we will be heading to the polls once again on Thursday June 8.
One thing you need to make sure you do is register to vote by Monday 22 May. It’s really simple, and if you aren’t sure whether you’ll be in Bristol or back at home, students can register to both addresses.
Here are 10 reasons why it is important you register to vote.
1. You have a right to vote
As a British Citizen or qualifying Commonwealth Citizen, you have every right to vote and have your say. If you’re unsure, see here
2. You can help elect whoever you want
You can be a part of electing any party you think represents you and your views best
3. If something you don't like happens, you won't feel as guilty if you voted
If a party wins that you don’t like, at least you tried so won’t feel as bad
4. It takes a couple of minutes
It is really easy to do and you can do it online
5. You should make your voice heard
You have your own views and opinions that you should express by casting your vote
6. Only 43% of 18-24 year olds voted in 2015
Don’t be part of that 57%! (and only 54% of 25-34 year olds voted)
7. Every vote counts
66% of eligible voters did so in 2015 – the number of those that didn’t vote could have changed the results
8. If you really don’t like any of the candidates, you can still spoil your ballot
If you’ve read all the different policies and really don’t agree with any, you can still spoil your ballot. Scribble, draw, or scrunch – this sends a stronger message than not voting at all
9. The deadline is soon approaching
There’s no time like the present – before you know it, you’ll have missed the deadline
10. You may even enjoy partaking in democracy
It’s a good feeling to take part in something so important, you may find it more interesting than you think!