STOCKTON-on-Tees Borough Council is one of many local authorities across Europe celebrating the ninth European Local Democracy Week (ELDW) promoting human rights, the rule of law and democracy. This year ELDW takes place from 12 to 18 October with the theme of living together in multi-cultural societies – respect, dialogue, interaction.
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council promotes local democracy throughout the year, using the official week to highlight specific events and campaigns. This year, the Council is working with several partners to run various activities and events for children, young people and adults, spread over several weeks.
With a new Electoral (Voter) Register due to be published on 1 December, there is a big focus on increasing the number of people registered to vote and ensuring that the register is as accurate and up to date as possible. Schools, colleges and local universities will be targeted, along with outreach in local supermarkets, canvassers calling at properties, and a special Citizenship Ceremony.
Other activities include groups being given the opportunity to meet the Mayor and enjoy Town Hall visits and tours; Count de Voters supporting several school council elections; young people being urged to make themselves heard through various campaigns such as ‘Make Your Mark’; and all residents being encouraged to nominate people who deserve credit for what they do in the community for the Mayor’s Civic Awards.
Councillor Bob Cook, Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: “Local Democracy Week is a great way to remind people, whatever their age, about the value and importance of their voice, how to make it heard, and encouraging recognition of those who contribute so much to our local community.
“The Council is committed to ensuring young people have a voice in decision making, so it’s great to see so many of them getting involved.”