Scotland is preparing to go to the polls for the Scottish Parliament election on Thursday 7 May.
To help you prepare to vote, the Catholic Parliamentary Office has a comprehensive election guide.
It aims to guide Catholics to engage thoughtfully and prayerfully in the democratic process, reflecting on their responsibilities as citizens and disciples of Jesus Christ. ​
The briefing highlights key principles of Catholic Social Teaching, including:
- Human dignity
- The common good
- Solidarity and subsidiarity
And critical moral issues such as:
- The protection of life
- Care for the poor
- Accessible healthcare
- Environmental stewardship
- Defence of religious freedom.
The pack includes a pastoral letter from Scotland’s Catholic bishops, urging voters to approach the election with faith-formed consciences and a commitment to justice, compassion, and unity. ​
The bishops emphasise the importance of electing a Parliament with integrity and which prioritises the dignity of the most vulnerable in society. ​
You are also encouraged to use the election resource from the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children, which highlights candidates’ positions on key life issues. See here.