Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is launching our year-round Local Democracy Action campaign, in line with the new European Local Democracy Action (ELDA) initiative. This year‑round programme aims to make it simpler for residents to shape local decisions, replacing the former European Local Democracy Week and promoting ongoing citizen participation throughout the year.
Running a week of focused content from March 9 to 15, the Council will spotlight accessible and practical ways for residents to get involved now and in the months and years ahead, including:
- how decisions are made locally
- how to speak at meetings
- consultations and petitions
- what’s new for the May 2026 Senedd election
- routes to becoming a Councillor
- and easy, low‑commitment opportunities such as the Citizens’ Panel and youth engagement.
The easiest and most important way that you can voice your opinions and get involved in democracy is by registering to vote. Registration takes less than five minutes and can be completed entirely online, or in writing. All you need is your name, address, national insurance number and date of birth.
Councillor Maureen Webber BEM, Deputy Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, said: “Local democracy is an everyday activity, not a once-a-year event. Through Local Democracy Action, and by joining the Council of Europe’s ELDA approach, we’re making it clearer, easier and more welcoming for people to have their say.
“Whether that’s speaking at a meeting, responding to a consultation, or simply joining our Citizens’ Panel from home, our message is simple: your voice changes how we work.
“I encourage all residents to get involved in local democracy in a way that suits them.”
This year’s campaign also explains the key changes for 7 May 2026, when voters across Wales will elect a larger Senedd using a new voting system. From 2026 there will be 96 Members (up from 60), elected across 16 constituencies (four of which cover the RCT area) with six Members each via a closed‑list proportional representation system (D’Hondt). Voters have one vote for a party or independent candidate.
You can register to vote once you turn 14 in Wales, but you cannot vote in local Council and Senedd elections until you turn 16. For UK General Elections, you must be 18 to vote. Many EU and other qualifying foreign citizens who live in Wales can also vote in these elections (subject to residency and legal capacity).
Councillor Will Jones, Chair of the Democratic Services Committee, said: “We want every resident – especially young people and those who don’t usually take part – to feel confident about local democracy.
“We’re also showcasing practical routes for everyday involvement in RCT, from petitions and consultations to speaking directly at committees. The easier we make participation, the better our decisions will be.”
Did you know:
- If you are a student and you spend time at two different addresses, you can register to vote AND vote at both addresses.
- You do not always need to vote in person by applying for a postal vote or proxy vote.
- Being on the electoral register may increase your credit score, which is essential for applying for phone contracts, car finance, mortgages, and more!
To register, and for more information, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
ELDA (European Local Democracy Action): Year‑round Council of Europe initiative that succeeds European Local Democracy Week, promoting continuous citizen participation at the local level. You can find more information by visiting: Home - ELDW
Find out more about our Public Participation Strategy by visiting: https://www.rctcbc.gov.uk/EN/GetInvolved/Consultations/CurrentConsultations/ParticipationStrategy.aspx
Posted on 09/03/2026