The general election 2024 is a great opportunity for us all to influence how our country is run.

A general election is when people in every part of the UK can choose their member of parliament (MP). It's a chance to talk to people in our community about our values and the issues we care about. We can encourage our country's leaders to put those values into practice when they're making decisions that affect us all. With the urgent, interlinked crises of cost-of-living, climate and conflict, now is a crucial time to be part of the national debate. We'll provide resources throughout the election period to help you take part.

Get involved

    How to register

    Many of you will have already registered to vote, but if not, you need to do this to have your say in the general election. You can do this when you turn 16 in England or 14 in Scotland and Wales. Remember to register at your new address if you have moved house. If you want to vote by post or by proxy (when someone else votes for you), you need to register for this type of vote. To find out more and register, visit the government website

    How to vote

    Ahead of the election, you'll be sent a polling card telling you where and when to vote. You do not need to bring your polling card to the polling station. Find out more at www.gov.uk/how-to-vote

    If you're voting in person, you'll need to bring the right kind of photo ID with you to the polling station, such as a passport or driving licence. If you do not have a type of photo ID that allows you to vote, you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate. Find out more at the government website.

    Become a voter champion

    Local Quaker meetings can become 'voter champions' to help spread the word about registration and voting. Meetings can encourage other community organisations to become champions too. This is important because thousands of people in our communities, especially those from marginalised groups, are missing out on having their say at elections. Find out more at the Voter Registration Champions website.

    Hold an election meeting

    During the period before a General Election, some Quaker meetings organise election meetings (sometimes known as hustings) where members of the public can listen to and ask questions of the candidates in their constituency. The opportunity for respectful discussion in a neutral space is often appreciated by candidates as well as voters. There are lots of factors to think about when considering holding a hustings. Quakers in Britian and other churches have produced joint ideas and advice, which can be found in the 'resources' section of the Churches Together in Britain and Ireland website.

    Be aware of the laws

    There are some laws that Quaker area meetings and other charities should be aware of if they are promoting certain issues or viewpoints during the election. We have summarised in the UK general election 2024 Guidance for Quaker communities (PDF).