The polls for the local elections open today in many parts of England.

It's important that we find the time to have our say and vote to make sure the collective student voice is heard. Polls are open until 10pm tonight so we've still got plenty of time! Find your polling station now.

Not sure what this is all about? NUS put together some really useful information about this election:

"What are the local elections?
Elections will be held for all 32 London boroughs, 34 metropolitan boroughs, 68 district and borough councils, and 17 unitary authorities. In these elections you’ll be choosing councillors to run your local government.

If you are in Hackney, Lewisham, Newham, Tower Hamlets or Watford you can also vote for your local authority mayor. 

It’s completely up to you who you vote for – the important thing is that you go out and vote!

Can I vote?

You can vote if:
- you registered to vote before 17 April 2018
- are 18 or over on Thursday 3 May, and
- have elections taking place in your area. To find out if elections are taking place in your area see here.

Why should I vote?
There’s so much at stake: As living costs increase, as student support dwindles, as the gap between our generation and our parents’ widens, and as the spectre of Brexit looms large over our futures, it’s more important than ever that we continue to engage in politics and shape the debate. At our best, we students are a force to be reckoned with, and one that politicians cannot ignore. That’s why we’re urging you to get out and vote on 3 May and ensure your voice is heard.

How can I vote?
On election day if you are in an area where elections are taking place you’ll see polling stations pop up in your area, which will be open from 7am until 10pm. You should receive a polling card telling where your polling station is, or you can check here.

I’m still 17 but my 18th birthday is before Thursday 3 May. Can I vote?
If you registered to vote before 17 April 2018, then yes! Check here for further information.

I’m gutted that I can’t vote in these elections because I won’t be 18 yet on 3 May. What can I do?
Yes, it sucks doesn’t it! And that’s why we are also campaigning hard for 16 and 17 year olds in England to have the right to vote – just as students in Scotland and Wales already have. Click here to email your MP and tell them how you feel. In the meantime you can also register to vote here so that you can vote when you do turn 18."

Happy voting!