Sheffield residents share their thoughts on the local elections and whether they intend to vote
The likes of Labour, Conservative, Reform, the Green Party and Liberal Democrats among others are all campaigning to keep or win seats in this week’s local election
Sheffield residents will have their say on the future makeup of the city this Thursday (7 May) as attention turns to the local elections.
Earlier this week, the Labour Party, Green Party, Liberal Democrats and Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition (TUSC) all attended a hustings event with the Sheffield Star where they outlined the issues in the Steel City that matter to them. Reform and the Conservative Party were also invited but did not attend.
Each party is focusing on different issues with topics such as housing, potholes and the cost of living all featuring heavily in discussions. Each party has different ideas on how to run Sheffield, but one thing they can almost all agree on is that voting is important.
Statistics from the last local election show that upwards of 31 percent of the Steel City voted in the last one, which means more than half of the residents in the city didn’t take part.
With that in mind, we asked our readers whether they intend to take part in this week’s local election.
Theodora M. Davis believes all people should vote. She explained: “Of course. Everyone should vote otherwise you have no right to pass opinions on politics.”
Maggie Starkes agreed, commenting: “If you are unhappy with your local council, vote for a replacement . Your vote counts!”
Chris Beech added: “Postal vote, sent last week. If you don't vote this time, please don't moan about it after when you don't agree on anything that the winning party does.
“Council seats are in your hands, don't waste your chance to have your say now.”
Helen Moore said: “If you want change you must vote for it.”
Nicky Stott said: “Yes, l always vote. Undecided at the moment. This is a local council election not a general election so my vote will concern issues in my city and not descend into petty party politics and propaganda.”
Patricia Morris also discussed the importance of voting. She said: “Yes! My mother, grandmother and her mother fought for women to have the vote. It's the only chance we have to choose who will fight and represent us.”
Some, however, did question the importance of the election. Deborah Anna Mallinson commented: “What's the point?”
Steve Bainbridge emphasises the importance of voting. He said: “Yes, to make our city the way it should be run.”
Craig Alsop said: “If you don't vote, don't complain, make your mark, look at the issues and vote to try to make a difference. “
John Pritchett added: “Of course. I always vote. Basic democracy.”