National Democracy Week 2018 took place from 2nd – 8th July and is week-long celebration of democracy across the country and an opportunity to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the 1928 Equal Franchise Act which gave women the same voting rights as men.
Over the week, the Council supported the national campaign to raise awareness about democracy and encourage debate. Bedford Borough Council’s Electoral Team has been out and about across the borough to encourage everyone to #talkdemocracy.
During the week, the team worked with the Sales offices at the new developments, making sure that when new properties are occupied that the Council is informed and the new occupants are encouraged to register to vote, get involved and have their say.
The team have also visited residential care homes to encourage residents to get involved and make sure they are registered to vote. Finally, as part of the wider national campaign, the Council launched a campaign on social media to encourage young people to #talkdemocracy and also target people who have recently moved house to register at their new address.
Phillip Simpkins, Chief Executive said “It’s great to see so many people take part in National Democracy Week. Through public question time and Bedford Borough Council’s petitions scheme you can have your say and hear from your elected representatives about the issues that affect you most throughout the year. Last year 22 questions were put forward by members of the public at Full Council Meetings. Have your say and hear from elected officials about local issues. Join the debate.”
Details of the full calendar of Council meetings and agendas are available at http://www.bedford.gov.uk/council_and_democracy. Local elections will take place next year in May 2019 but you can register to vote at any time at http://www.bedford.gov.uk/register-to-vote
