In our “Virgin voters” series, we listen to what young people and first-time voters have to say about the issues that matter most to them. Today, as you cast your vote, we ask who you’re voting for, what the experience has been like, and if you’ll be following politics closely in future.
‘It was great to see so many young people in the queue to vote’
Charlotte Hall, 20, voted at St Hildas church hall in Jesmond, Newcastle. She says:
I voted for Labour. I believe voting is fundamentally important – politics affects us all every single day and by voting, our voice can be heard. It’s the first election I’ve been eligible to vote, so I was excited this morning heading to the polling station. Living in an area with a high student population, it was great to see so many young people in the queue waiting to vote.
There is no excuse not to go and vote, it takes all of two minutes and is so quick and simple. As a young person, it can be frustrating when we’re continually told how apathetic we are, with our voices seemingly ignored, however I hope this will change in the future. I have become more interested in politics, and engaged with issues facing this country more over the past six months due to the election.
‘The atmosphere on the ground has been electric’
Darren Mason, 20, voted in Lancaster and Fleetwood. He says:
I voted for Labour. For me, Labour have presented the most realistic hope for a fair future for all. The newspaper attacks on Labour and Miliband have disgusted me and shown that media owners are petrified of being challenged and losing their power. Voting is important, people have fought and died for the ability to vote and it’s our duty, regardless of our political opinion. Without voting, how can things change?
The atmosphere on the ground has been electric. Having conversations with people with different political opinions has been good. The election has brought my interest in politics to a new level and I’m determined to continue to be involved in political campaigning to help build a better future for Britain.
‘I love the experience of voting and the atmosphere’
Beth Watt, 20, voted in Newcastle-upon-Tyne Central. She says:
I voted Labour, and chose to vote in Newcastle, where I’m at university, because back home is a safe Conservative seat, and I wanted to make sure my vote mattered as much as it could. I love the experience of voting and the atmosphere. I’d like to think it’s one of hopeful, affirmative action, but perhaps that’s too romanticised.
A lot of the coverage Ed Miliband has received has been an utter farce, but he’s risen above it and come out all the better. I’ve always been quite politically engaged, and I’ll continue to be so after today. It’s difficult to disengage with something you’ve contributed towards and been so invested in. In future elections, lowering the voting age to 16 would get more young people engaged in politics. I felt ready to contribute at the last election but had no say, and was left with a government which has had a massive impact upon my life.
‘It feels brilliant to vote – the election has definitely made me more interested in politics’
Jack Stapleton, 19, voted in Brighton Pavilion. He says:
I voted for Caroline Lucas of the Green Party, and it feels brilliant to vote for something I actually believe in, rather than having to vote tactically. But I’m aware that many people have to use their vote to keep their least favourite party out. There’s an urgent need for voting reform in this country, so more people can actually vote with their convictions.
The election has definitely made me more interested in politics, as I’ve been part of a local campaign for around six months. This has helped me engage in issues both local and national. Future elections need to include some level of proportionality, so young peoples’ voices can be heard more strongly nationwide. Online voting would also boost turnout among young people – the internet is such a huge part of our lives now.
‘It feels really good to know that I have a voice’
Katherine Lea, 18, voted in lopes hall, University of Exeter. She says:
I voted for Labour, as I felt other parties neglected young voters. Labour’s policies are the fairest and most realistic in terms of what they can achieve for young people. The experience wasn’t as stressful as I imagined, so the whole process was really enjoyable. It took a matter of seconds and it felt really good to know that I have a voice.
I have enjoyed this election, especially as it was my first. And I will definitely continue to be interested in politics. Politics is certainly more engaging when you’re actually participating and ensuring that you use your right to vote effectively. I’ve always been interested in the voting process, but now I’ll play closer attention to see if the elected parties fulfill their promises.
‘I travelled 160 miles to vote in one of the country’s most marginal seats’
Caitlin Doherty, 19, voted in Warwickshire North. She says:
Today I voted for Labour. I made the 160 mile trip back to my home constituency of Warwickshire North, one of the country’s most marginal seats, to vote for the Labour candidate. I think that voting is always important, but this year more than ever: this election really matters.
I really enjoyed the voting experience. After seeing all of the rules and regulations of the voting stations circulating the internet – “no discussing politics”, “be careful what you do with your phone”, I was a little worried about doing something wrong. But it was actually an easy and relaxed process.
This is a really tense time in British politics and it feels incredible to know that I’ve made an impact and taken a stand against something about which I was unhappy. I think I’ll always be interested in politics. How can a person not be?
The view on Twitter: what was your first time vote like for you?
@gdnstudents really scary - felt so much pressure to make the right decision. Heart beating so quickly!
— Grace Edwards (@gracey_edwards) May 7, 2015
@abbyyoungpowell @gdnstudents amazing! Thankful for all the women who fought for my right to vote. Feel empowered and proud and heard!
— Gemma Sowerby (@gemsowerby) May 7, 2015
@gdnstudents postal vote was anticlimactic. Still exciting tho!
— Angus Quinn (@Angus_Quinn17) May 7, 2015
@gdnstudents It was a bit underwhelming really. But I feel good that I've done it.
— Ben Cole (@CapnCole) May 7, 2015
@abbyyoungpowell @gdnstudents Easy!! Voted by post.
— Jamie Wright (@JWrightJourno) May 7, 2015
@abbyyoungpowell postal vote! There needs to be an online system next time though.
— Maddy Grey (@mgrey95) May 7, 2015
@abbyyoungpowell I did it by post so all very easy. But I think following it & knowing I have a voice this time has been the most exciting
— Michelle Gleaves (@michellejg) May 7, 2015
Have you voted for the first time in this general election? Tell us about your experience in the comment section below.
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