April 27, 2017, by Chloe

A Guide to the June Elections

The elections process can be confusing. Luckily, being at university, we are in a unique position in regards to our access to information, which can make the process easier!

Deciding who to vote for

We have a range of free literature available to us through the libraries and a range of online resources easily accessible. We can attend talks by academics, political or not traditionally so, that can give us expert or alternative viewpoints. One great resource that may be overlooked is other students. We have a diverse student body – talk to your friends, your course mates (just don’t do what a friend of mine did and start a debate about Brexit in a nightclub – there’s a time and a place!). You can see how issues affect people of all regional and wealth backgrounds, and consider issues in a new light.

If you are at home over Easter, talk to older members of your family and younger ones too, who will probably have an opinion that they are frustrated they can’t share. Read newspapers from both sides of the debate, talk to people you disagree with – avoid the echo chamber! As to who to actually vote for, you’ll need to make up your own mind on that one. But remember, your vote is private, so vote for the candidate YOU believe is the right one.

Registering

You can register to vote in this election if you are a British, Irish or Commonwealth citizen over the age of 18 (or will be 18 on or before the 8^th June). You cannot vote if you are an EU resident. If you voted in the EU referendum or any previous elections you are already registered. If not, you need to register by 22^nd May. Once registered, you will receive a poll card with all the necessary details with how to vote on the day, how to postal vote or vote by proxy.

If you are registered to vote in your hometown but not in Nottingham, you can apply for a postal vote, which must be applied for by 23^rd May at 5pm. This involves filling in an application form and sending it by post or email to your local electoral registration office. Exact times and procedures differ regionally so check with your local authority. Postal votes need to be returned by 10pm on 8^th June to the local authority.

Happy voting!

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