Why should I bother voting?
What does the government do for young people anyway?
Politicians know that most young people don’t vote in general elections and this probably makes them less likely to do things for us. Compare that with a massive turnout of 78% for people aged 65 and over, and you begin to see why politicians, rightly or wrongly, do more for that age group (think free bus passes, TV license, and guaranteed pension rises each year) than they do for young people.
Only 43% of 18-24 year olds voted in the last general election of 2015
Just imagine if 78% of young people aged 18-24 voted in elections, the different political parties would be forced to up their game and start taking issues affecting young people far more seriously. Issues such as:
- EMA and tuition fees
- Opportunities for training and employment
- Good quality apprenticeships
- Housing and other benefits for under 25s
- Provision of mental health services
- Access to decent housing
- Crime and social exclusion
- Personal safety
- Climate change
Voting is the most effective way of letting the government and the other political parties know what you expect from them in return for your vote.
Aren’t all political parties more or less the same?
The main political parties standing for election in Wales are:
Click on the links to see what these parties are offering.
Find out more about how to register for your vote and more at:
https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
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