WYCHAVON residents will need to show photo ID to vote at this year’s local council elections on May 4.
This new requirement was introduced by last year’s Elections Act, passed by the UK government.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport, a UK or EEA drivers’ licence, a blue badge or an older person’s bus pass.
Out-of-date ID will still be accepted if the voter is still recognisable from the photo, and anyone who doesn’t have any accepted forms can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.
Residents will need to apply for Wychavon District Council, town and parish council elections by 5pm on April 25.
People will need to be registered to vote first before they apply, and this can be done by following the links on Wychavon’s elections page.
This year’s district council elections will be the first held under new ward boundaries, meaning the name of the electoral ward residents may vote in could change.
Residents are urged to check poll cards, which will be issued towards the end of March, for the location of their polling station and more information on the photo ID requirement.
Vic Allison, Chief Executive and Returning Officer for Wychavon District Council, said: “Residents will be electing a whole new Council in May as well as representatives on town and parish councils across the district.
“Although it may seem a long way away, I urge people to check now they have the required form of photo ID to make sure they can vote in May.
“If you haven’t, then please apply for a Voter Authority Certificate early to make sure you don’t miss out on making your voice heard through the ballot box.”
Visit www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID for the full list of accepted photo IDs.
Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/elections for more information or contact the elections team by emailing [email protected] or calling 01386 565437
