Don't miss the vote! Charity encourages civic participation

Urban Synergy is urging its young people to register for the chance to vote in July’s General Election before 18th June.

The award-winning youth empowerment and social mobility charity Urban Synergy - that’s helped 27,000 young people gain access to education and work through mentoring - is encouraging its ‘mentees’ to ensure they’ve registered to vote in the UK’s general election on the 4th of July.

“We worry that not everyone will know that you have to register by midnight on 18th June to be able to vote in July’s election,” says Urban Synergy CEO & Founder, Leila Thomas. “What we do works for young people, business, and society, and it’s important that the next generation participates in the democratic process.

“Some young people might not realise that democratic processes sometimes involve bureaucratic processes, and we don’t want anyone to miss out.”

Urban Synergy is contacting all of its young people aged 18-24 years this week to encourage them to register to vote and to remember to bring photo ID with them to the polling station on 4th July. The rules around ID are strict. See the full list of ID types.

“Registering is quick, but you'll need your National Insurance (NI) number to hand. If you don’t have your NI number, you can still register but it might take longer,” says Leila.

Register to vote

Urban Synergy’s Chantelle Barnett, who’s worked for the charity for almost three years added:

"In May 1997, I voted for the first time. I had just turned 18 and was studying British Politics. I was eager to make my mark and fulfil my duty to society by using my voting rights.

“To me it wasn't about patriotism in a traditional sense. I talked to my parents about how important it is to vote, but having seen much more of life, they were more cynical about it. I reminded them how privileged we are to be able to vote.”

Mentoring Coordinator Safiya Chiapps-Forrester (shown) says: “When I think about my first voting experience I remember wanting to vote but being unable to.

“In June 2016, when the EU Referendum was held I wasn’t quite old enough to vote. It was a frequent topic in sixth form and like most of my peers I was disheartened at being just a few months away from having my say in such a pivotal election.

“It was then especially important for me to vote in the general election the following year. I view voting as my duty but understand that many young people feel hopeless and cynical, leading them not to vote. Those feelings are valid.

“However, it’s important for young people and young ethnic minorities to consider that their turnout encourages political parties to align policies with their interests to gain their vote.”