7 Reasons To Vote In The Guernsey Election

In a time of growing economic uncertainty, rising misogyny, and a worrying shift towards political extremes, our voices matter more than ever. Because, although Guernsey may be a small player on the global stage, the choices we make locally speak volumes about the kind of community we want to be part of. 

So don’t underestimate the power of your vote in the upcoming elections. Whilst it’s easier to push it all aside and ignore the 'politics', by showing up and using your voice you are helping to shape the island we live in. Your vote can influence policies that support gender equality, whether that’s pushing for equal pay, addressing gender-based violence or supporting better maternity rights. And that’s just for starters.

Still need convincing? Here are 7 reasons to vote this year.

 

1.  To Ensure Women's Voices Are Heard.

Voting is more than just ticking a box. It’s an act of empowerment. It’s your chance to actively participate in shaping the future by standing up for your rights and ensuring that women’s voices are heard in Guernsey’s political landscape. The more we get involved, the more we can challenge outdated norms and push for real, lasting change in our community. By voting, you’re helping to build a future where women are equally represented and valued. 

 

2.  To Achieve Equality.

By voting for Deputies who prioritise what’s important to you and not leaving the decision making to others, you can help to promote things like equal access to leadership roles, LGBTQIA+ rights and you can support those who are committed to building on initiatives like gender pay gap reporting (something that has been up and running in Jersey for several years). Guernsey has made progress, but there’s still work to be done.

 

3.  To Advocate For Women.

We need to have Deputies who are willing to address issues that disproportionately affect the women in our society, such as domestic abuse, maternity rights and affordable childcare. Things are improving with, for example, services such as Willow House, the Sexual Assault Referral Service. But policies are still evolving and your vote can ensure that these issues stay on the agenda and get the attention they deserve.

 

4.  To Support Family-Friendly Policies.

For many, but disproportionately for mothers (yes, even in 2025), balancing work and family is a real challenge. There are significant pressures, not least inflexible working conditions and the high cost of living. We do have some forward thinking companies and we’ve seen some improvements in the workplace, but there’s still work to be done. By voting for Deputies who express family-friendly policy views, you can keep issues, from affordable housing to better childcare options and parental leave policies, at the top of the agenda and help to bring about change that makes work-life balance more achievable for everyone.

 

 

5.  To Prioritise Health And Wellbeing.

Women's health needs are unique, and with Guernsey’s Health and Social Care services under increasing financial pressure your vote can help to ensure that women’s health issues are given the attention they deserve. You can help to shape local policies on services such as maternity care, mental health support and cancer screenings, to name but a few. As global research into women's specific health needs continues, your vote can support progress and push for better access to services that can keep Guernsey up to date with the rest of the world.

 

6.  To Empower Future Generations.

Voting gives you the chance to shape our island home into a community where young people grow up knowing their voices matter. Whether your focus is on improving education or breaking down the barriers that limit opportunities based on gender or identity in the workplace, your vote today can shape a better tomorrow. 

 

7.  Because You Can!

Women in Guernsey had to fight long and hard for the right to vote. After years of campaigning, some women over the age of 30 were finally granted the right to vote in 1920. But it wasn't until 1945 that restrictions on age and property were removed, meaning everyone could vote on equal terms. When you think about it, that really wasn't so very long ago. And we know a huge majority of our audience are local women - of all ages. So let’s exercise that right!

 

To have your say in the June 2025 local election you must register to vote by 30 April 2025.