You youngers get a right hard time of it.
Apparently, you’re lazy, apathetic, and have a strong distaste for owt that could possibly be classed as political. But we know that’s nothing but a load of old codswallop, and you’d like nothing better than to vote on the decisions that directly affect you.
Like the fact that in April 2016, all workers over the age of 25 will receive a 50p pay rise to take their minimum hourly earnings up to £7.20. For all you 18 - 24 year olds stuck on a wage somewhere between £5.30 and £6.70 an hour, it sucks to be you.
It just so happens, that half of 18 - 24 year olds said that they hadn’t registered to vote in the general election, and of those who did register, less than half of them actually bothered to vote. That might have a little summat to do with the decisions being made on your behalf, eh?
While we know it’s not because you just don’t care, we do think you might need a little kick up the bottom to get yourself in gear.
Bite The Ballot are a party-neutral youth movement on a mission to get you lot informed, engaged and inspired to get involved with the democratic voting system we ought to be proud to have. Basically, they’re saying that the only way the government will listen to what young people actually want, need and deserve, is if you pull your finger out, register, and actually vote.
This week, they’re running a campaign to ensure you all remember to register to vote so that you can have your say on things like the EU referendum, and who represents you in your local council. It’s all mightily important stuff.
Not only that, but they’re holding a free event at the council house this Wednesday, for all 16 - 21 year olds to learn more about the kinds of decisions their government makes. You’ll get the chance to comment on how the local budget should be spent, and advise local councillors on how they should interact with their young constituents.
If this sounds right up your road, pop along to the event website to find out more.
Bite The Ballot Youth Takeover, Wednesday 3 February, 12.45pm, free entry, Council House Ballroom.
Bite The Ballot website
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