One week left to register to vote

WITH only one week left to register to vote in the Scottish Parliament election, the Electoral Commission is urging people to register before the deadline at 11.59pm on Monday April 20. Research shows that young people, students and those who have recently moved are less likely to be registered to vote. Anyone previously on the register who has recently moved home or whose details have changed will need to register to vote again. Also, those who do not have a fixed address, whether due to homelessness, being a part of the Gypsy or Traveller community, or because they are, or have been, in care, can still register to vote using a declaration of local connection. It can be done online at gov.uk/register-to-vote. Commenting, Cahir Hughes, from the Electoral Commission Scotland, said: “On Thursday 7 May, people across Scotland will head to the polls to have their say on the issues important to their daily lives. If you've recently moved, or you're a student living away from home, it's especially important to check you're registered and you can do that quickly and easily. "If you do not have a fixed address to register to vote at, you can still take part by registering through a declaration of local connection. For this election, eligibility for care experienced young people has been extended up to the age of 21, from 16, so we’d encourage those who need to make use of this option to do so. “Importantly, voter ID is not required for the Scottish Parliament election. If you’re registered to vote, all you need to do on the day is turn up and have your say.”