Faith into action: engaging with the 2026 elections
From meeting local candidates to promoting kindness in public debate, Lucy le Roux shares resources for Quaker communities to use to engage with the political process and speak up for truth, peace and justice.
2026 is an important moment in British politics, with elections taking place for the Senedd Cymru, the Scottish Parliament, and local government and mayoralties across England. For Quakers, this is an opportunity to bring our values into the public conversation and make a difference this election time.
There are resources available to help you and your local meeting engage with candidates. This could be at a hustings, on your doorstep or because your local meeting has arranged to meet with candidates.
Engaging with candidates in Scotland
Remember your responsibilities as a citizen for the conduct of local, national, and international affairs. Do not shrink from the time and effort your involvement may demand.
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In Scotland, there is a chance to uphold truth and integrity, to champion climate justice, promote peace, advocate for compassionate justice and to build positive relationships by engaging with candidates in a constructive dialogue.
Learn more through our Guide for Quakers (PDF), our advice for approaching candidates (PDF) and use our draft email to contact candidates (PDF) as a local meeting. If you have any questions or would like some support engaging with candidates in Scotland, please contact scottishpolitics@quaker.org.uk
Voting with kindness in Wales
In Wales, there have been real concerns about the rise of hard right and divisive politics and campaigning. Crynwyr Cymru – Quakers in Wales have created a set of resources aimed at voters calling on people to 'vote with kindness'. You can download the bilingual posters and social media graphics here and watch a new video featuring Welsh Quakers speaking about how their values lead them to act for love.
Find useful information about the Senedd elections on the Crynwyr Cymru – Quakers in Wales website. If you have any questions about the Senedd elections or would like some support engaging with candidates in Wales, please contact crynwyrcymru@gmail.com
Guidance for Quakers across Britain
There are some laws and guidance documents (PDF) that Quaker communities need to be aware of during the election period. Elections are regulated by the Electoral Commission, and charities are regulated by the Charity Commission or the Office for the Scottish Charity Regulator, so their websites are the main sources of information.
The elections in May across Britain are a key moment for Quakers to stand up for justice. And that engagement doesn't stop after May. We have a real opportunity to build positive and long term relationships with our politicians and communities advocating for Quaker values and seeking to build the world we want to see.
