Manchester needs you! Why voting is important and how to register
Manchester’s local elections are just around the corner, so now’s the time to register to vote if you haven’t already! Regardless of who you vote for, registering has lots of benefits, it’s simple to do and it’s one of the best ways to support the changes that you’d like to see in Manchester.
Read on to find out more about why registering to vote should be at the top of your to do list…
Helping to create positive change
Local governments play a huge part in creating policies and initiatives that impact the environment. From renewable energy projects to waste management, creating green spaces and supporting transport networks, local councils have the power to change and influence all sorts of things. By electing people who prioritise the environment and align with your values, you have the power to influence local projects that matter to you.
Supporting your local area
While lots of us love where we live, we all probably have areas we’d like to make tidier, greener, less polluted or just give them a bit of TLC. Voting in local elections allows you to support your area, amplify local voices and prioritise changes that really matter to you and your community.
The ripple effect
Sometimes big changes start off small, and projects which begin at a local level can have a massive influence across the rest of the UK. Manchester has always been known as an innovator, and the work we do now can have a huge effect when it comes to making the rest of our cities greener and more environmentally friendly. So, your vote could make a real difference further down the line too, as local projects grow and are replicated in different areas.
Check out this list of council case studies for some inspiration.
Did you know, In Manchester we have three Neighbourhood Climate Change Officers who are tasked with supporting climate related projects and initiatives in different regions around the city?
Improving your credit score
This is one of the benefits of being registered to vote that often flies under the radar, but by being on the electoral register it’ll help banks and lenders to check that you are who you say you are, which is especially useful if you don’t have a long credit history.
You can learn more by visiting the Experian website here.
How to register
Head to the GOV.UK website to either register online or download a paper form which you can submit by post, and you can read their official guide to registering to vote by clicking here. Remember the deadline for registering to vote in the upcoming May elections is on the 16th of April!
More links and resources:
Check out this tool from Friends of the Earth to see how climate friendly your area is and where some of the biggest differences could be made.
Head to The Commitment to find out more about how your vote can influence broader changes
Visit the Local Intelligence Hub to find out more about your local MP’s which brings together lots of handy information all in one place.
Use this tool from Manchester City Council to find your local councillor.
