Many young people feel disconnected from politics, even though they care about key issues like housing, jobs and the environment. Supporting them to vote helps build that connection and empowers them to take part in shaping the future.
Scotland and Wales allow 16 and 17 year-olds to vote in local and devolved elections. In England and Northern Ireland, the voting age is currently 18 for all elections.
To vote in English local elections, you must be 18 or over and either a British, Irish, qualifying Commonwealth citizen, or an EU citizen with specific rights based on agreements or retained status.
To vote in a UK general election you must be 18 or over, registered to vote, and be a British citizen, an Irish citizen, or a qualifying Commonwealth citizen who has leave to remain in the UK or does not require it.
