This week is ‘Welcome to Your Vote Week’ 2025, supporting young people to be more informed and engaged with local politics and democracy.
The theme for 2025 is “get informed and get involved” highlighting the need for young people to access trustworthy information and to get involved locally. Whether it’s discovering who represents them in their area, exploring the issues that matter most to them, or making a positive impact in their community, there are lots of ways young people can get informed and get involved.
Welcome to Your Vote Week 2025 is being led by independent body The Electoral Commission, which oversees elections in the UK and works to promote public confidence in democratic processes.
The Electoral Commission also has teaching resources available for schools and youth groups. A range of activities are also suggested, including holding votes in schools or youth clubs on a topic that will make an impact, or holding a voter registration drive. More details and resources can be found at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/welcome-your-vote-week-2025
With the next election expected to be the Scottish Parliamentary Election in May 2026, young people who will be aged 16 or older at the time are also being encouraged to register to vote. The minimum age to register to vote in Scotland is 14 years of age, and registration can be done online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
Andrea Manson, Convener of Shetland Islands Council, said: “It’s so important for young people to get involved in local elections and local democracy, to have their say on things that matter to them and to influence decision-makers. ‘Welcome to Your Vote Week 2025’ is a great opportunity for young people to take the time to get involved and understand more about how they can have their voices heard.”