The handbook encourages residents to take an active part in elections. That can mean simply voting, but it also includes campaigning for a candidate or party, delivering leaflets, attending hustings, donating to a campaign, joining a political party or even standing for office yourself. All these activities are protected by the freedoms of speech, assembly and association.
Further reading: an editorial guide on this topic opens in a new window for additional context.
To stand as a candidate in a UK general election you must be aged 18 or over and a British, qualifying Commonwealth or Republic of Ireland citizen. Candidates must pay a deposit of £500 which is refunded if they win at least 5% of the vote in the constituency.
Test questions in this area often present a list of activities and ask which qualify as taking part in democracy. Voting, campaigning, leafleting and donating are all valid; refusing to engage is not.
Test yourself on this topic
These questions from the official-format question bank cover the same material. Tap any question to see the correct answer and a short explanation.
Keep going
- Read the full study notes for Values & Principles.
- Try a practice test on this chapter.
- Sit a full 24-question timed mock.
- Browse the complete library of topic explainers.
Related topic explainers
A Free Press and Independent Broadcasting
How a free media supports democracy in the UK and why broadcasters are regulated for impartiality.
Paying Taxes in the UK
Income tax, National Insurance, council tax and VAT — what every resident is expected to know about funding public services.
Parliamentary Democracy in the UK
Why the UK is a democracy where Members of Parliament — not the King — make the law.
Looking After the Environment
Recycling, walking and cycling, energy efficiency — small civic duties highlighted in the handbook.