Voting is the most vital part of the democratic process.
And, while general elections might be more hyped, local elections are just as important – if not more so – for your day-to-say life.
In England, there will be a batch of local government elections in May 2018,
These will be taking place on Thursday May 3.
Here are the elections that’ll be happening:
- Local elections across England. You can check your area here.
- Mayoral election in Sheffield.
- Mayoral elections in: Hackney, Lewisham, Newham, Tower Hamlets, and Watford.
Who can vote?
- British citizens, qualifying Commonwealth citizens, or citizens of the European Union
- Residents in the UK
- Those not subject to any legal incapacity to vote
You’ll need to register to vote by Tuesday April 17.
If you’re already registered from previous elections, you won’t need to do this, but if you’re unregistered or have changed address, name, or nationality you’ll need to.
Do so on the Government’s website with your national insurance number and passport if you’re a British citizen living abroad.
You’ll get instructions on how to vote nearer to the time, and it’ll be through a first past the post system.
Elections like these are incredible important. Some of the issues tended to by your local council include:
- Council housing
- Education services
- Electoral registration
- Environmental health
- Leisure and recreation facilities
- Local planning
- Local transport
- Parks and public places
- Regulation of local business
- Roads and footpaths
- Social services
- Waste and recycling
Use your vote wisely and do your research. And don’t forget to register!