Local Democracy Week (13 to 19 October 2025) is all about empowering citizens to shape the places where they live, work, and learn. Across Kirklees, we’re celebrating the people who make a difference every day and inviting everyone to get involved in local decision-making.
This year’s theme highlights the importance of involving citizens in shaping decisions that affect their local communities. In Kirklees, we’re bringing this to life by focusing on participation, community identity, and practical ways to influence change, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to make their voice heard.
Why local democracy matters
Local democracy isn’t just about elections—it’s about having a voice in decisions that affect your everyday life. From improving town centres to supporting local schools, democracy starts with you. We want to work with communities to make involvement easier and more meaningful.
Key opportunities to get involved
Reapply for your postal vote
New rules introduced under the Elections Act mean all postal voters must reapply every three years and complete an identity check. If you applied before these changes, you’ll need to reapply by 31 January 2026 or your postal vote will be cancelled.
- Apply online via our postal voting page.
- You’ll need your National Insurance number for ID verification.
- If you’ve received a letter or email, act now to avoid reminders.
Democracy Friendly Schools programme
We’re leading the way with our Democracy Friendly Schools initiative—the first of its kind in the UK. Schools can sign up for flexible activities that teach young people about local democracy, connect them with councillors, and even train them as Kirklees Youth Councillors.
- Activities include “Train the Trainer” sessions for staff, two-day democracy workshops for pupils, and community projects.
- Schools completing the programme can earn Democracy Friendly School status.
To find out more, email Democracy@kirklees.gov.uk
Community Governance Review
We’ve recently launched a Community Governance Review to ensure parish and town council boundaries reflect local identities. This is your chance to influence how local governance works.
- Stage 1 engagement runs from 1 October to 12 December 2025.
- Share your views on parish boundaries, merging or creating new parishes, and improving governance.
- Complete the online survey at Kirklees CGR
Growing Great Places – deadline for project submissions
Do you have a great idea to improve your local area? The Growing Great Places crowdfunding programme can help turn it into reality.
- Kirklees Council could pledge up to £5,000 for groups and £2,500 for individuals.
- Submit your project on Spacehive
- The current funding round is open now—don’t miss your chance to join dozens of successful projects that have already raised over £550,000 in pledges.
Local Democracy Week is your opportunity to make a difference. Whether you’re reapplying for your postal vote, helping young people learn about democracy, shaping parish boundaries, or launching a community project—your voice matters. Let’s grow a stronger local democracy together.