Last day to register to vote

Today is the last day to register to vote for the 2018 local council elections. On Thursday, May 3, there will be 48 new council seats in the borough – and a total of 4,300 new seats nationwide. But has Islington registered to have their voices heard?

In the EU referendum, Islington had a 70.39 per cent turnout record in the vote.  Campaigning for the referendum was pretty boisterous in Islington. “There was a moment when we walked down Upper Street and 70 per cent of people were wearing in badges,” Emily Thornberry, MP for Islington South and Finsbury Park told The Evening Standard.

The total number of people eligible to vote in Islington this month is 152,727, according to Islington Council. This new statistic is just a few thousand less than it was in December 2017, when it was 154,346.

While Islington may have a high turnout rate, locals often need a few reminders before registering. Islington resident Charlotte Thompson, 20, says: “I have but only because my mum registered for me, otherwise I wouldn’t know that there was an election.”

Voting is important as it affects your local community, schools and even specific services like street cleaning. One fourth of public spending is accounted by Councils. In a way, voting allows you to choose how your money is spent. You don’t get to vote every day, so it’s important to do it when you get the chance.

There are many reasons why people don’t vote, with many citing the hassle that comes along with registration. Although it may seem like a burden it’s important to get it done. Another reason people don’t get registered in time is because they do not know when the deadline is.

Islington resident Jimmy Tucker, 26, says: “You need to vote if you want to make a difference. “If you want you want your voice heard then get registered today by midnight!”

Please note that if you want to appoint someone to vote for you, the deadline to apply is April 25. See the website below if you are interested in casting a proxy vote. April 18 is the last day to apply to vote by post.

For details about registration check this link or you can contact electoral services at electoral.services@islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 3110.