Last week the new mobile phone game Pokémon Go was launched in the UK (you can download it on Apple and Android devices) and it seems to have been a great hit. The point of the game is to explore the real world to find these little Pocket Monsters (“Pokémon”) which show up on your phone. In addition to this, there are numerous “Pokéstops” and gyms placed throughout the world which allow players to collect in-game items and compete against other players in battles to become the very best.

Now this might sound silly to you or not your cup of tea but here are a few ways in which it could help you (at least over the next month or two).

1. Make delivery routes a bit more fun for your team by challenging them to see who can catch more Pokemon along the route.
2. Place a lure module (this attracts more Pokémon to a particular spot for a limited time) at the end of the delivery route as a bonus for those playing (there’s bound to be at least 1 Pokéstop nearby!)
3. If running a stall or handing leaflets out in the street see what Pokéstops are near you and again use a lure, to entice people to the area (or at least look popular!)
4. A new alternative social for those looking to do something other than a trip to the pub or Pizza and Politics – combining it with a picnic will mean there is something for everyone.
5. Finally, the game adds a fun new element to campaigning – why not kill two birds with one stone and hatch some of those eggs whilst you deliver a round!

This game has also been praised by mental health groups for the way it has encouraged people to leave their homes and be more active. It has also become a good way to meet new people and make friends, especially if you’re on the same team!

That said, please be careful when playing the game as there has been at least one case of people using this game to rob people and people being injured whilst crossing roads. Be sensible when playing and try to stay in pairs. Furthermore, just like Minivan, the app will eat away at your battery and data. A portable charger can solve at least one of these problems!

So, will you join Team Valor, Mystic or Instinct?

* Chloe Hutchinson is the current Chair of Welsh Young Liberals and a candidate for the Welsh Parliament. She is also a team member of @ThatsDevolved.