3rd - 10th July 2026
Following the announcement of Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation, Britain will soon have its seventh Prime Minister in 10 years. Many young people’s entire political memory will be one of leadership contests and short-lived premierships. Our times often feel politically uncertain. Some commentators declare the death of the traditional two main parties, others despair at the rise of populism both on our shores and abroad. Our own voters argued that the UK was a divided nation, primarily when it came to political issues. Previous VoteTopics have revealed a clear scepticism of the Government, and the Prime Minister in particular, amongst some of our young people. What do they make of the news of his resignation? Do they think they should have a say on who will replace him as leader of His Majesty’s Government?
total votes
voters aged 5-11
voters aged 11-16+
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26th June - 3rd July 2026
The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup is set to be the biggest gambling event in history. Whether through social media, adverts or family members, young people are increasingly exposed to the world of gambling. The Gambling Commission found 79% of young people have heard or seen adverts about gambling through either online or offline sources (TV being the most common). Gambling is also an increasingly visible presence in many popular video games, with players paying for a chance of acquiring in-game items, through “lootboxes” and similar mechanics. With its visibility seemingly on the rise, where do young people stand on gambling? Is it a part of their world? Do they feel secure in navigating its potential risks?
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19th - 26th June 2026
The Government has recently announced plans to introduce a social media ban for under-16s, with aims for it to come into effect in early 2027. Supporters of the move say that it is a vital step to keep young people safe. In the words of the Prime Minister, “Tech giants had their chance and failed, but we’re stepping in to protect children, back parents and set a new normal for future generations.” However, critics say that a similar ban has failed to achieve its aims in Australia, with 70% of 12-15-year olds managing to create new accounts despite the ban. They also argue that the voices of young people, those most affected by the decision, have been ignored. In an attempt to remedy this, we want to put these voices at the heart of the debate. When we asked our voters if there should be a social media ban in January, they returned a 85.7% ‘No’ vote. Now that the plan is becoming a reality, will their voting change?
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12th - 19th June 2026
Recent hot weather has seen people flock to rivers, lakes and beaches to relax, play and spend quality time with their loved ones. Tragically, since 5th June, at least 17 people - including 11 teenagers - have died in accidents involving water across the country. Attempting to prevent any more deaths, various water safety organisations, from the RNLI to the Royal Life Saving Society, are urging caution when it comes to trying to cool down in the heat. The problem is often one of awareness, with many not knowing the potential dangers that water can present, from cold water shock to hidden machinery under the surface. With the UK facing a future of hotter and hotter summers, are young people confident that they can keep themselves safe in the water?
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