Operation Traveller Vote

Voting in elections

The Traveller Movement launched #OperationTravellerVote to ensure Gypsies, Roma and Travellers are registered to vote and most importantly, have their voices heard during elections.

Read about Cassie Marie McDonagh’s experience of voting for the first time.

This video showcases the reasons behind the lack of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller vote:

Polling Stations

Are you fed up with the poor services in your area? There is something you can do to help improve them! Voting gives you a say on important issues that affect you. Everything from roads and recycling in your area, health services to education and climate change. You may think you don’t want to vote now, but if an issue comes up that you want to have your say on, if you’re on the register you’ll have the chance to vote on it. Remember, registering to vote does not mean you have to, it just means you can if you want to!

This video explains the importance of registering to vote, and the ease of voting at a polling station:

Who can register to vote?

British or qualifying Commonwealth citizens aged 16 or over (but you cannot vote until you are 18). This means Commonwealth citizens who have leave to remain in the UK or do not require such leave. Citizens of the Republic of Ireland or other European Union (EU) member states.

How do you register to vote?

Registering to vote takes around 5 minutes and can be done easily online: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Who can vote?

British, Irish and qualifying citizens of Commonwealth countries (including Cyprus and Malta) can vote at all elections. Citizens of other EU member states resident in the UK can vote in local government elections but cannot vote in UK Parliamentary elections. Those that reside in Scotland or Wales may also vote in Scottish Parliamentary or National Assembly for Wales election.

Who should you vote for?

Not sure which party has policies closest to your own? Why not read our handy manifesto guide which breaks down each of the main parties’ promises into handy categories. We have come up with six key questions to ask your candidates, and a short briefing to explain why these changes are needed! Write to your local candidate or ask them on twitter (using the #OperationTravellerVote hashtag) and make your voice heard!