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).