16 & 17 year olds want help navigating politics

As the UK prepares to extend voting rights to 16- and 17-year-olds nationwide, new research from the John Smith Centre and Focaldata highlights a clear gap in the cohort's political readiness.

The poll of 512 young people (16-17-years-old) from across the UK reveals widespread feelings of confusion and disengagement, with many citing a lack of education and understanding as key barriers to participation.

While a majority express support for democracy and a willingness to vote, the findings underscore the urgent need for stronger citizenship education and clearer communication from political leaders to ensure these new voters feel confident and informed.