The Christian Vote announces pledge for 2026 elections
Christian Democracy UK has renewed its call for candidates standing in the forthcoming Scottish Parliament, Welsh Parliament, and local council elections across the United Kingdom to endorse The Christian Vote, an initiative that continues to shape the party’s engagement with public life and policy.
Chaired by Max Stenner, Christian Democracy UK is writing to candidates and political parties nationwide, inviting them to affirm a set of principles rooted in human dignity, social responsibility, and the role of faith in public life. The initiative, which has been promoted in previous election cycles, seeks to provide voters with greater clarity about where candidates stand on issues of moral and social importance.
At the heart of The Christian Vote are five core commitments.
Oppose new changes to the law that would liberalise abortion or introduce or expand euthanasia or assisted suicide, affirming the inherent dignity of every human life from conception to natural death.
Oppose the government’s cuts and removal of VAT relief on repairs to listed historic churches and places of worship, and support instead the full restoration of relief or equivalent funding to preserve these vital community and cultural assets.
Prioritise ending rough sleeping and long-term homelessness by investing in affordable housing, expanding support services for vulnerable individuals and families (including those facing mental health challenges or addiction), and working collaboratively with faith-based and community organisations to provide shelter, dignity, and pathways to stability.
Promote policies that support marriage, stable families, and parental rights in education and upbringing, including improved financial support for families, access to affordable childcare that respects parental choice, and safeguards against policies that may undermine the traditional family unit.
Defend the right of Christians and people of faith to live out their beliefs in public life, education, and the workplace without discrimination, and recognise the important contribution of faith communities to social services, education, and the common good.
Max Stenner, Chair of Christian Democracy UK, said the initiative is not about partisanship but about ensuring that voters, particularly those motivated by Christian social teaching, can make informed decisions at the ballot box.
“The Christian Vote is about clarity and accountability,” he said. “Across Scotland, Wales, and our local communities, voters deserve to know where candidates stand on fundamental questions of human dignity, family life, social justice, and freedom of belief. These are not fringe concerns, they go to the heart of a healthy and compassionate society.”
He added that the initiative also reflects a broader vision of politics that brings together moral conviction with practical action, particularly in areas such as homelessness and community support.
Christian Democracy UK has indicated that responses from candidates and parties may be published to help inform voters ahead of polling day.
As campaigning intensifies, The Christian Vote is expected to remain a focal point for engagement between faith-based organisations and those seeking public office, continuing its role as a benchmark for candidates willing to publicly affirm these principles.