Elections in the U.K.
Why should you vote?
There are many answers. Everyone has their own reasons to vote. One of the most important is that we live in a democracy, a privilege not afforded to most. Unlike many in the world, we have an additional route to pursuing our objectives and holding power accountable that others don't have. It is crucial to use it. We cannot hope to escape the incompetence of the current government without it. You don't even have to vote for a candidate - you can spoil a ballot, which is its own statement.
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Also, looking to the Tories' new electoral ID law, disenfranchising millions of young and working people under the guise of clamping down on nonextistent instances of voter fraud. A 60+ Oyster ZIP card counts as valid ID, but an 18+ one doesn't. Ask yourself - why? What is it they are afraid of? What is it you might have to say that the people in power are afraid of hearing? Don't you think that that is reason enough to make sure they hear it anyway?
The most important thing to do is register to vote so that you are on the electoral roll and can vote. This takes about 5-10 minutes. The right-hand link takes you to the Government's form to register to vote, and explains how to check if you are already registered.
In the UK, elections take multiple forms, including but not limited to Local Elections and General Elections. The link on the right explains this further.
Additionally, if you are a student who lives at University during term-time, you may vote in the local elections (though NOT General Elections) at both where you live at home, and where you live during term-time. The link on the right explains this further and how to check what your local council is.
All UK voters are entitled to use of a postal vote. It is free to do - you are sent your ballot in advance of the elections then you simply post it back, completed. This is particularly useful for students who wish to vote at home and at University during term-time, or to avoid the government's new ID requirement for voting in-person.