Since the next General Election date has been set for 4 July 2024, our campaigning team have been busy spreading the word about the importance of voting.
Styliana, our amazing Campaigns and Advocacy Officer, has been visiting our adult services to talk to the young people about elections.
The first stop was Newbridge – our Stockport-based day center for adults with autism, learning disabilities and complex needs – where the young people had varying levels of knowledge on the topic. Some were already registered and voted regularly, while others were keen to learn more.
Styliana came prepared with handouts and our very own polling station. The day included a mock voting activity where young people could choose between fictional parties and cast their vote independently.
Next we visited Bridge College, Together Trust’s specialist education provision for disabled young people aged 16-25. We were welcomed by the student council who were very interested in learning more about elections and voting.
The session was interactive, and the students made many meaningful contributions. We discussed barriers to voting to which students added that:
- ‘not all polling stations are accessible’
- ‘some people don’t know how to find their nearest polling station’
- ‘many people don’t know who to vote for’ (Dieu)
- ‘people struggle to choose only 1 party because they have multiple priorities’ (Ahash)
- people don’t know they have the right to vote if they are disabled’ (Hifza and Anas)
When asked what change they would like to see from the new government, they responded with some valuable suggestions like:
- More money for hospitals
- Better and more accessible transport
- Free school meals
- More housing
Students enjoyed the voting simulation and learning about how their actions have an impact. Paul says “It is important to vote because everyone needs to have their say. That is how we can get change to happen”.
