Residents in Calderdale are being urged to remember their ID when they go to vote on Thursday 4 May.
Voters will need to show accepted photo ID at polling stations before they can receive their ballot paper. This is a new requirement introduced by the UK Government that comes into effect for the first time at elections in May.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA drivers’ licence; some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card; and the new free Voter Authority Certificate. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Robin Tuddenham, Returning Officer at Calderdale Council, said:
“There’s not long to go until local elections and it’s important to make sure you’re ready to cast your vote.
“This year, for the first time, it’s essential that you remember to bring an accepted form of ID with you to the polling station on 4 May. If you need any help, you can contact the electoral services team at electoral-services@calderdale.gov.uk or on 01422 393103.”
Craig Westwood, Director of Communications, at the Electoral Commission, said:
“Anyone voting at a polling station in England will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. Before you head to the polling station on Thursday, don’t forget to check your bag, wallet, or pocket to make sure you have the ID you need to vote.”
The full list of accepted ID, along with more information about the new requirement, is available on the Electoral Commission’s website(external link).
If voters lose their ID, or their Voter Authority Certificate does not arrive in time for election day, they can appoint an emergency proxy to vote on their behalf up until 5pm on election day. The person appointed as proxy, voting on someone else’s behalf, must have their own acceptable photo ID. More information at Emergency proxies | Electoral Commission(external link)
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