You might have heard that the Senedd election is on Thursday 7 May.
What you might not know is why the election matters, and what it means for you and your community.
Why does the Senedd election matter?
The Senedd election is important because the Members you elect to the Senedd will have the power to make decisions that affect everyone in Wales.
Some of the issues the Senedd – and Members of the Senedd (MSs) – are responsible for include:
- Agriculture
- Culture
- Education
- The environment
- Health and healthcare services
- Housing
- Some taxes
- Transport
- Welsh Language
Representing you
After the election, the Senedd will have 96 Members instead of 60.
Everyone in Wales will have six MSs representing their area. You can contact any of them about issues in your community – it doesn’t matter whether you voted for them or not.
Having more Members will give the Senedd greater ability to look at and challenge the Welsh Government’s plans and spending on important topics that may affect you like hospitals, education, and transport.
Having 96 Members will also bring the Senedd in line with other countries of a similar size to Wales, like Scotland which has 129 Members and Northern Ireland which has 90.
In your community
When they’re not working in the Senedd, most Members have a local office in their constituency.
As well as being politicians, they’re part of your community.
They hold drop-in sessions, called surgeries, so you can meet them and discuss local issues that concern you. You can also contact them online or by phone.
After hearing from you, your Member could raise your concern in the Senedd. They can ask a question or arrange a debate during Plenary.
Members also visit schools, businesses, and other local organisations to build connections with the people they represent. These visits help them understand what’s happening locally and bring those voices back to the Senedd.
Why is this better?
One of the biggest improvements will be that you and people in your community will have more choice over which MS you want to contact regarding an issue.
For example, if you want to raise an issue about something to do with the NHS you could contact a particular Member who you know is passionate about the subject. If you have concerns about agricultural issues or business policies, you might choose to contact a different Member.
You could also contact all six Members about an issue. The choice is yours.
How do I contact my Members of the Senedd?
You can contact any of your MSs – in person, online, or by phone – no matter who you voted for. All represent you equally.
Your Members are your representatives in the Welsh Parliament, and can ask the Welsh Government questions on your behalf.
Not sure who your Members are? Use your postcode to search for them.
Wales is voting
When you vote, you’re helping to choose the people who will represent your community in the Senedd, and shape the kind of country you want to live in. Your vote can shape your future – make your mark on 7 May.
How can I learn more about the Senedd Election?
You can find out more about the Senedd election by visiting our Election hub.