Joint statement on the West Midlands mayoral election and local elections by the University of Warwick and Warwick Students’ Union
As you will know, local elections are taking place on 6 May in Coventry and Warwickshire, and across the UK. It is important that students and staff vote because these elections have a significant impact on our local communities and the region.
The deadline to register to vote has now passed for these elections but you can still add your name to the electoral register for future elections.
The outcomes of these elections is important. Your local representatives play a key role in shaping the services available in the region, such as housing, transport, libraries, leisure centres, policing, safety, rubbish and recycling. Your councillors, mayors and police and crime commissioners impact your day-to-day life, and this is the easiest way to influence them.
Your vote could be critical in determining the outcome of these elections, which can be won and lost by only a few votes. Think carefully about what is important to you, and vote accordingly.
The student voice is important to both our communities and the region. As a student, you can vote at your term-time address, even if you are currently staying at home. If you are at home, apply for a postal vote and participate in these local elections - we encourage you to do so.
On behalf of the University of Warwick and Warwick Students Union, we think it is important that everyone who is eligible to vote, does so.
Make sure your voice is heard!
Stuart Croft, Vice Chancellor University of Warwick
Luke Mepham, President of Warwick Students’ Union
We call on everyone to:
- Check if you can vote. Be sure to check your eligibility on the electoral commission’s website. EU citizens are able to vote in the 2021 local elections.
- Register to vote. If you’re a student, you can vote in local elections in both areas because they are separate elections.
- Educate yourself on the issues. What matters to you? What do you want to see changed? Read the different manifestos and decide who is speaking for your interests.
- Talk to your friends, family and colleagues in the region and encourage them to vote.