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January 31, 2023
Young people in Renfrewshire are being urged to register to vote to ensure they can have their say in future local and national elections in Scotland.
It’s part of the Electoral Commission’s ‘Welcome to Your Vote’ week, running from 30 January to 5 February, which aims to educate young people about democracy and empower them to make their voices heard.
As long as they are a resident of Scotland, all 16- and 17-year-olds can vote in Scottish Parliament and local council elections – regardless of where they were born or what their nationality is.
Young people in Scotland are able to register to vote from the age of 14 to ensure they’re ready to cast their first vote once they reach 16.
Omar Taher, Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP) for Renfrewshire North & West, said: “It’s more important than ever that young people have the opportunity to have our say on issues that affect us and voting in elections is a great opportunity to make a difference.
“Being involved in politics as an MSYP has given me a greater understanding of how everything works, and I’d encourage all young people to take the time to learn more and realise that their vote is important.
“It only takes five minutes to sign up so please do so and ensure you’re ready to cast your vote at the next Scottish Parliament or local council election.”
As part of the week of action, local schools in Renfrewshire have access to free resources, including lesson plans and workshops, to allow them to start the conversation about politics and democracy with 14-18-year-olds.
Renfrewshire Council’s Youth Services team provide year-round support to MSYPs and work with the Electoral Commission, Young Scot, local schools, community groups and Renfrewshire Youth Voice to promote the right to vote and to develop youth voice opportunities across Renfrewshire.
Alan Russell, Returning Officer for Renfrewshire, said: “Welcome to Your Vote week is the ideal chance to speak to our young people about how democracy and elections work and ensure they are prepared to make their voice heard in upcoming elections.
“While they need to be 16 to vote in local and Scottish Government elections, they can register from 14 so please support anyone aged 14 and over to take the five minutes needed to register.”
For more information on registering to vote, visit https://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/votingasayoungperson.
