How the biggest update to UK elections in a generation empowers young people.
The UK Government introduced the Representation of the People Bill to Parliament on 12 February 2026. It is a landmark set of reforms that will reshape how elections work across the country, in particular, opening up democracy to more young people.
For the first time ever, 16 and 17‑year‑olds across the UK will be able to vote in all elections. Until now, this was only possible for some elections in Scotland and Wales.
What’s changing?
- 16 and 17‑year‑olds gain full voting rights in General Elections, local elections and referendums
- The registration age lowers to 14, ensuring young people are ready and able to vote as soon as they become eligible
- Young people in care can register using a Declaration of Local Connection, helping ensure no young person misses out due to their living situation
- 14 and 15‑year‑olds will not appear on the public electoral register, protecting their privacy
This change recognises that young people deserve a say in decisions that directly affect their futures.
When will the changes happen?
The Government intends to have the new laws in place before the next General Election (which must be held by 15 August 2029 but could be called sooner).
This means that today’s young people could be voting in the next national election – a transformative shift for youth voice and representation. They are unlikely to be eligible to vote in local elections taking place in May 2026.
The latest stage took place on 2 March when the Second Reading of the Representation of the People Bill took place in the House of Commons.
What happens now?
The Bill will now make its way through the House of Commons and House of Lords to undergo legislative scrutiny before becoming law.
Learn more about how NYA are preparing for this change in law
”“We have a collective responsibility to ensure that young people receive equitable, accessible and inclusive political education, supporting them to build the resilience, knowledge and confidence needed to engage meaningfully with this new democratic opportunity.”
Esther Horner-AirdStrategic Youth Voice Lead
UK Youth Parliament and Votes at 16
The UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) has long championed giving young people a stronger voice in democracy, and its 2024–2026 manifesto placed issues like Votes at 16 at the heart of its calls for a fairer and more inclusive political system. UKYP Members have consistently highlighted the importance of lowering the voting age through national debates and campaigns over a number of years.
The progress now being made through the Representation of the People Bill is a testament to years of youth advocacy, determination and commitment. To every young person who took part in campaigning, debating, voting and raising their voice: thank you. Your leadership and persistence have played a meaningful role in shaping this moment in UK democratic history.
