2.1 Why supporting young people to vote matters

In the 2024 General Election, only 37% of 18–24-year-olds voted – compared to 74% of those aged 65 and over. That means younger voices are often under-represented in the decisions made at national level.

When some groups are more likely to vote than others, it can shape which issues receive the most attention. 

Many young people say they’re unsure how politics relates to their lives, or feel disconnected from the decision-makers they see in the media. At the same time, they care deeply about the issues that affect them, from housing and education to jobs and the environment.

Part of the challenge is making political systems feel accessible, relatable and worth engaging with. By helping young people understand how decisions are made, and how they can get involved, we can support them to take part in democracy in a way that feels meaningful to them. Voting is one important route among many for having a say and helping shape the future.