6 Financial Issues That Will Get You Voting in the 2015 Election

The results are in: young people are ready to vote if politicians promise to secure their financial futures. In our survey of 1000 young people, we discovered that while issues like the future of the NHS, online safety, crime, and elderly care are important, the financial burdens of the future are what truly drive you to the polling stations.

Key Financial Concerns for Young Voters

1. The Cost of Living

Rising costs for essentials like food, bills, and travel make life increasingly challenging. The inflation rate directly affects these costs, and young voters are keen to see policies that address these financial pressures.

2. Affordable Housing

In cities across the UK, the high cost of renting or buying a home is a significant concern. For instance, Londoners often find themselves priced out of the city due to soaring property rates, despite having grown up there.

3. Unemployment and Access to Work

The struggle with unemployment has been a persistent issue since the UK recession. Young people want policies that improve employment rates and provide better access to job opportunities.

4. Closing the Wealth Gap

Young voters are inclined to support politicians who focus on reducing the wealth gap. This involves rethinking tax revenues and business practices, ensuring that those with lower salaries can retain more of their income.

5. Tuition Fees

Higher education costs are a major concern, with many young people opposed to the steep £9k per year university tuition fees. Reducing student debt is a priority for half of the young voters surveyed.

6. Britain’s Public Finances

More than half of young voters want public funds allocated more wisely, with emphasis on healthy pensions, a robust NHS, and minimal benefit cuts for those in need. This reflects the determination of the current generation to plan a secure financial future.

Make Your Voice Heard

Your vote can influence these critical issues. A quarter of young voters are undecided, presenting an opportunity to sway the election outcome. Register to vote and ensure your concerns are addressed.

For more insights, you might be interested in reading 6 financial issues that’ll get you voting in 2015 Election, Voting 101 - your ultimate guide to voting in the next election, and Swing the Vote: Young people DO care about being heard at elections.

The Populus poll is part of a wider research initiative from Demos, set to launch later this year, exploring key issues motivating young voters and potential changes in politicians’ behavior that could increase voter turnout.