The Government is moving to lower the voting age to 16 and 17 with an Elections Bill. This is intended to engage voters early and ensure young people feel represented in our democracy.
Recent research by Internet Matters and Full Fact shows how lowering the voting age presents an opportunity to strengthen democratic participation, but is not a guarantee.
The survey of more than 550 young people aged 13-17, and over 800 parents and carers across the UK, found that young people do not feel well equipped to assess the news, politics and current affairs they encounter online from a young age. This includes young people’s confidence in judging the accuracy, intent and credibility of information they encounter online - all core media literacy skills that feed into how people interpret the information that informs their vote.
Without targeted support, many newly enfranchised voters may struggle to engage confidently or meaningfully in democratic life, with a risk of disengagement from political participation at an early age.
Our joint briefing is available here, and below is a summary of the key findings and our recommendations for Government and Parliament as the Elections Bill moves forward.
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