Local elections rarely make headlines - and yet, on 1st May 2025, thousands of people across Preston, Burnley and beyond will cast votes that directly shape the communities we live, study, and grow in. From bus services and bin collections, to housing regulation and youth services, these ballots determine who gets to make the decisions that affect students every single day. Read what your VP Education, Charlotte has to say about the local elections.

While student turnout in local elections has historically been low, that’s not because students don’t care. At UCLan, students are pushing back against the idea that politics is something that happens elsewhere, led by other people.

They're voting  and they’re doing it for their futures, their communities, and for those who can’t.

“Voting matters as it gives me a voice”

There’s a powerful shift underway on UCLan campuses. Across Preston, Burnley and Westlakes, students are preparing to make their voices heard, many for the first time.

“Voting matters as it gives me a voice,” said Laura Kenny. “I vote for who I believe stands for what I do, and what I believe are the best proposals for the local community. Voting means I have a choice over who is in charge of the local community.”

That sense of choice - and control over the world around us - is echoed by students across disciplines and campuses. For Harley, voting is “an opportunity for my voice to be heard and to make changes which affect the way in which we live. Voting gives you the power to steer the future. One small action can create a bigger reaction.”

These aren’t abstract ideals. Local elections affect the daily reality of student life, the cost of housing, how safe your walk home feels, and whether your community is invested in or ignored.

“I want my community and local government to best represent my interests,” said Lois Turley. “These elections are the best way to have a tangible impact on our lives and make sure the issues I care about are looked after.”

A legacy of action — and responsibility

Some students are casting their votes with history in mind - recognising that the right to vote has never been guaranteed, and still isn’t universal.

“I’m voting in these elections because generations before me have fought for the right to do so,” said Avery Greatorex. “It’s so important to play your part in creating a future not only for yourself but for your community — not every party will benefit you, that’s why action is so necessary.”

Others are finding meaning in simply showing up - even if none of the candidates feel like a perfect fit.

“It’s essential to use your right to vote to make your voice known, be that as a tactical vote or even checking the ‘no confidence’ box,” one student told us. “That stands as much as a candidate. Not voting at all wastes the effort and fight women went through to allow women to vote.”

“We are capable of change”

While national headlines often dominate attention, students know that real change starts locally. The impact of councillors in Lancashire County Council - and in Cumberland for Westlakes - is felt in everything from bus timetables to social care funding.

“It matters to me to make a difference in my community,” said Abigail Beavan, “not only for myself and my beliefs, but for disadvantaged people who are more affected by lack of government support and change.”

For Safurah, a course rep at UCLan, voting is about justice and responsibility:

“I care deeply about the future — not just my own, but the future of my friends, family, and the generations that come after us. The decisions made now will impact education, student loans, job opportunities, climate change, and equality. Voting is how I make sure my voice, and the voice of my generation, is heard. We are capable of change - the hardest part is going out to do it. Once you’re there, simply turning up is action enough.”

Voting for others — and voting together

Not all students can vote - and that’s a key motivator for some who can.

“I’m voting in the upcoming elections because I believe it’s important to have a say in the decisions that affect my future, especially as an international student in the UK,” said Ola. “Even though I may not have voting rights in every type of election, I support the democratic process because policies around education, immigration, and employment deeply impact my life and the lives of others in similar situations. Voting is not just a right — it’s a responsibility. Even if the impact seems small, each vote contributes to shaping a society that reflects our values, hopes, and needs.”

Trishna shared a similar view:

“Voting matters to me because it’s a way to support leaders who represent our values and help shape a better future for all students.”

What if every UCLan student voted?

With more than 15,000 students in Preston alone, the impact of a high student turnout would be massive. Local elections are often decided by narrow margins — sometimes just dozens of votes. If students vote in full force, your issues and your voice can’t be ignored.

“Change is only going to happen if you become a part of it,” said Abdulsamad. “With voting, it shows that all relevant feedback is adhered to and listened to — to make sure every student has an equal opportunity.”

Another student put it simply: “Allows young generations to have their say equally to other generations.”

Despite being one of the most politically aware and digitally connected generations in history, young people consistently vote less than any other age group. In the 2023 local elections, turnout among 18–24-year-olds was estimated to be under 30% in many areas - and even lower in student-dense wards, sometimes dipping below 20%. Compare that to over-65s, who vote at rates above 70%, and the political consequences are clear: older voters’ priorities are heard, and younger ones are often sidelined. But it doesn’t have to be this way. If every UCLan student turned out on 1 May, it could shift results in wards across Preston, Burnley, and Westlakes. The numbers aren't fixed -and that’s exactly why voting matters.

So what do you need to know?

• Preston and Burnley students: Your local elections are on Thursday 1st May. If you’re registered, find your polling station and bring a valid form of photo ID.
   

• Westlakes students: Egremont’s election has passed, but Seascale votes on 22nd May.
   

• Not sure what ID counts? TOTUM + PASS cards, passports, driving licences and more are accepted. Full details are at gov.uk/voting-in-the-uk.
   

“Don’t forget your ID!” added Lois, who also worked as a poll clerk. “It’s an easy process. And ‘Dogs at the Polling Station’ is the cutest thing about the day.”

Because this is your vote - and your future

As students, you already shape this city. You fill its buses, energise its nightlife, and bring communities to life. But unless you vote, your influence stops at the ballot box.

So bring your housemates. Show up. Make your voice heard.

When students vote, we send a clear message: we’re here, we care, and we won’t be ignored.