Communities fight for representation and access as Scotland heads to the polls

As Scotland prepares for voters to head to the polls, charities are working to ensure everyone can access the information they need to take part in the democratic process.

Efforts are particularly focused on supporting people new to the country and those with disabilities, who can face additional barriers when voting.

Francesca Muñoz, from Everyone’s Vote Matters Scotland, has developed accessible voting guides translated into dozens of languages to support Latin American and other minority communities.

She says many of the issues shaping the election have a direct impact on these groups.

“All of the things that are going to be decisive in this election are the decisions that affect these communities the most,” she told STV News.

“It’s really important that we have a say in matters like education, migration rights and health, especially for those who are often less supported to cast their vote.”

For many within the Latin American community, housing and education are among the key concerns influencing how they will vote.

Tatiana Barros, from the Latin American Community Association of Edinburgh, highlighted access to healthcare as a major priority.

“Our main priority is to gain accessibility to the NHS,” she said. “Another important issue is ensuring there is a proper curriculum in schools that reflects our community.”

Maria Papachristos, from the Citizens Rights Project, added that trust remains a significant barrier to participation.

“Healthcare, employment and housing are key concerns,” she said. “A lot of the communities we support do not feel they have the trust needed to be civic participants.”

Accessibility at polling stations is also a concern for disabled voters. Callum Lancashire, who lives with macular degeneration, works with Sight Scotland to train polling staff on how best to support visually impaired voters.

“There are so many barriers people face when they go to vote,” he said. “People can feel anxious or worried, and that can spoil the experience.”

Meanwhile, members of Scotland’s Afghan community say their challenges extend beyond voting itself, with many still living in temporary or unsuitable accommodation.

“There are many who are living in hotels or temporary housing, which is not sustainable or affordable,” one individual told STV News.

Around four million people are expected to vote on Thursday in the election for the seventh Scottish Parliament, with 129 MSPs to be chosen.

With issues such as the cost of living, healthcare and immigration dominating the campaign, the results will determine who voters trust to address the challenges facing Scotland.