Ways to vote
There are various ways to vote, by post, or by proxy, for example, and you may be able to register at your term-time and home address. You can also go to your nearest polling station on the day, but remember, you will need to have registered your vote first. You cannot vote, if you haven’t registered.
Why should I vote?
Using your vote is important and can make a difference. It gives you a say on important issues that affect you, everything from recycling and roads to education and climate change. Being registered to vote means you will be able to vote on an issue when it comes up. Using your vote in these elections could also put a stop to the BNP party. NUS has produced a guide which explains how your vote can make a difference.
The BNP, a known racist and fascist party, pose a significant threat in the European elections. In the North West, the BNP only need a 2-3 per cent swing to their 2004 vote to win a European parliamentary seat. In Yorkshire and Humber, the BNP only need an increase of 3 to 4 points. But these are not the only places that the BNP are campaigning. The threat affects all our members and the danger is nationwide. Using your vote can help stop this.
Voting is also a lot easier than you may think. It’s as simple as filling in your name, address and a few other details on this site. Then you just need to print the form, sign it, and send it to your local electoral registration office. You can get their address and other contact details from the About my vote website.
Voting myths
You may think you are already registered to vote because you pay your council tax – that is a myth and come voting day, you will not be able to vote. Even if you have received a polling card from the council, you still need to register.
It is also not true that you cannot vote if you were not born in the UK. Students from the EU and Commonwealth are also eligible to vote. Check out the facts and make sure you don’t miss out because you haven’t registered.
Further information: