You don’t have to wait for an election to make your opinions known in politics.
You can broaden your understanding of the issues by watching the news, going to online forums and joining in debates. You might even consider setting up your own blog or website, or getting together with like-minded friends to help improve things in your local area.
On a larger scale, you can write to local and national newspapers, become a member of a pressure group focused on a single issue, get involved in local activism or even join a political party. Who knows, one day you could become a candidate that other people vote for.
Just remember that before you can vote you need to be registered. If you haven’t done this already, why not do it now? Even if you never plan to vote there are other benefits in being on the register. You’ll find it easier to get loans or credit and your identity is less likely to be stolen. In Northern Ireland you’ll be entitled to a free electoral identity card, which can also be used for proof of age.