Published on Wednesday 03 May 2023
With under 24 hours to go until the polls open at the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council local elections, residents are asked to get their photographic identification ready.
In order to vote at the local elections tomorrow (Thursday 4 May) residents will need to bring a form of photo ID with them to the polling station.
Without a form of photo ID, residents won’t be able to cast their vote at the polling station.
Accepted forms of ID include a passport, driving licence and some bus passes. A full list of accepted ID is available via bcpcouncil.gov.uk/voterID
Some residents will be bringing a Voter Authority Certificate to the polls; a new form of ID that could be applied for before the 25 April by those without a form of valid ID.
Graham Farrant, Returning Officer at BCP Council said; "It’s a new rule introduced by the government that everybody who votes at a polling station tomorrow must bring one of a whole list of acceptable forms of photo ID.
"Most photo ID that you have, like a passport or driving licence, will be accepted. It does not have to be in date. You can bring expired ID, as long as the picture still looks like you."
"Please remember to bring your photo ID tomorrow, as that way we can ensure that everyone who wants to can have their say in this democratic election."
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.
"If a voter has concerns about showing their face at a polling station, because they wear a face covering for example, they can ask to have their ID checked in private. They won’t need to give a reason for their request or explain why they’d prefer privacy. Staff will be trained to handle requests for ID to be checked in private, discreetly and with courtesy."
At tomorrow’s elections, residents in BCP will be voting to select councillors and parish councillors.
Polling stations open at 7am in the morning, until 10pm in the evening on the day of the election.
Residents can find their polling station by visiting: bcpcouncil.gov.uk/pollingstations