Politics is becoming a much bigger part of young people’s lives across the county, but in Stroud, I’ve noticed a particularly strong interest in political issues. Not just those that directly affect us, but wider issues stretching across the UK and even into international affairs.
So why is this happening in Stroud?
Stroud has a strong history of political engagement. After looking into our election history, I found that turnout in Stroud at the 2024 general election was 70.9%, putting the constituency among the 20 highest turnouts in the country, according to the UK Parliament website.
While this figure only includes people old enough to vote, it does provide an indication of the politically engaged environment in which many young people in Stroud are growing up. Political conversations at home, at school and within the wider community can all help shape an interest in politics from a young age.
This is also happening alongside a growing national interest in politics among young people, driven in part by social media and increased discussion around issues that directly affect younger generations, including the voting age, education, housing, the environment and the economy.
Social media has also made politics more accessible. Young people can now follow politicians, campaigners and news organisations directly, watch debates and discuss political issues with people from across the country and around the world.
For young people in Stroud, this national conversation is combined with a local culture where politics and community issues are already prominent.
Ultimately, young people do not have to wait until they are old enough to vote to have their voices heard. They can take part in discussions, understand different viewpoints, question decisions and engage constructively with the issues affecting their communities.
Stroud’s young people have an opportunity to show that political engagement can be informed, respectful and constructive – and that your voice can matter long before you put a cross on a ballot paper.
