Are you registered to vote?! Your vote matters.

“One of the penalties of refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors” – PLATO

This is a bit of a different post compared to what I would normally write about but it is something that I believe to be important so I thought I would write it anyway. On the 8th of June there will be a General Election. If you are not yet registered to vote it is very important that you do so. In 2015 34% of women didn't vote in the General Election. If you are one of those people who did not vote, and are not registered here are 10 things to consider.

1. It gives you the power to generate change

If you have a complaint about the way the country is being run voting is a simple way to make change. By choosing a candidate that suits your views they then represent you on a local and national level.

2. Voting is still important even if you don't think you'll candidate will win

Living in a 'safe' seat constituency doesn't mean your vote won't make a difference; if everyone just 'gives up' nothing will change. Brexit is a perfect example of that as people thought Remain was a sure thing and so didn't vote.

3. You can leave your ballot paper blank if you don't agree with any of the political parties

By not voting it is assumed that you are not interested but by leaving your ballot paper blank you will still be counted and included in subsequent reports. Your apathy will be recorded instead of forgotten. 

4. It'll make your age group relevant

It is important that enough of each age group votes otherwise there is not a correct representation and laws matching the views of the people will not be created. 

5. Democracy shouldn't be taken for granted

Many movements have fought to give us the right to vote, such as the suffragettes. There are also many countries where people do not have the opportunity to make decisions about their country so it important for us to not take it for granted.  

6. It's easy and free!

Registering online takes 5 minutes, and if you are unable to attend the polling station it can be done either by proxy or postal. So no matter how busy your life is; it's really easy to do.

7. You'll be helping decide how YOUR money is spent

We all pay taxes, if you go shopping you pay tax, and by voting you'll decide how they are spent.

8. Being registered improves your credit rating

Bit of a selfish one but being registered makes it easier to get mobile phone contracts, credit cards, housing and so much more.

9. It's your future

Around 75% of people aged over 65 will vote and only 42% of 18-24 will. Don't let older people vote for what will affect you the most. The scrapping of maintenance grant, and the reductions in housing benefit are no coincidence.

10. It gives you the right to moan

If you don't vote what right do you have to moan when it doesn't go your way? 

In order to vote you need to register by the 22nd of May. 

Your vote matters. It's your future. Fight for it.