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Why you should vote

Voting is your chance to elect the person you believe will best represent your interests. It is important you vote in all elections - it's your opportunity to influence decisions which impact on your life.

When you vote in local elections you elect a councillor for your district or parish ward. Councillors decide the priorities and objectives of the council, as well as the amount the council spends.

When you vote in the General Election you elect your local Member of Parliament (MP) to represent your interests and concerns in the House of Commons. MPs are involved in considering and proposing new laws.The importance of voting can't be underestimated.

You should vote because:

• It gives you a say about who runs your local area and the country, which means you get a say about how your local area and the country is run.
• Your vote does count. You may have just one vote, but combined with votes from others who share your views it can become very powerful.
• If you don't vote how can you complain about anything local or central government does?
• The only way democracy works is if everyone takes part. Government by the people, for the people can't work without the people.
• In some countries people are literally dying to be able to cast a ballot and make a difference. Don't waste yours.

Make sure you cast your vote whether it is in person at the polling station, by post or by proxy. Please make sure nothing stops you from voting.

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