The upcoming council elections on May 7th have left students at the University of Sheffield divided over whether to vote or not.

Some students were not even aware that there was a council election coming up.

Aerospace engineering student, Sam Jolly, 19, at the University of Sheffield said, “I didn’t get enough information about the election, they should target younger voters more. I couldn’t tell you anyone’s names or policies.”

Aly Claugh, 18, a psychology student said, “I didn’t even know there was an election. I don’t watch the news, I feel like I haven’t got enough information to vote and make a decision.”

Voter turnout has declined in recent years. The Electoral Commission found around three in 10 young people under 18 said they had heard about politics in school or college.

Tim Hopkinson, a lecturer at the University of Sheffield, who teaches a politics module said: “I think it’s really important for young people to vote. People should visit students and universities, to come in and tell them that their vote will make a difference.”

Mr Hopkinson also said, “Not all people in other countries can have a say, we have a democracy here and they can make a difference even if it feels like they can’t.”

Some of the main student ward areas are Broomhill, Sharrow Vale, Crookes, Crosspool, Fulwood and Nether Edge.

Council elections are held on a four year cycle. In local elections candidates are running to control services and the area and control local councils.

Miah Mansour, 19, a journalism student said, “I think voting is a crucial part of our democracy and as a young person I think my voice matters, especially as a university student.”

For University of Sheffield students living in Endcliffe Village voting will take place at The Edge between 7am-10pm on the 7th of May.