Published on Thursday 09 March 2023
With just two months to go until Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council’s local and parish elections, residents are being encouraged to make two important checks before polling day.
Ahead of the elections on Thursday 4 May, Graham Farrant, Returning Officer at BCP Council said: "Now our council elections are two months away, it’s vital that those heading to the polling stations check they have an accepted form of photo identification to bring with them.
"Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate before 5pm on Tuesday 25 April. The best way to do this is online at: voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk.
"It’s also important that anyone unsure if they are registered to vote checks this by Monday 17 April."
The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station has been introduced under the UK Government’s Elections Act, which comes into effect for the first time this May.
Without an acceptable form of photo ID, residents will not be able to cast their votes at polling stations.
Accepted forms of ID include a passport, driving licence and some travel passes, but residents can also show expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Residents can check to see if they are already on the electoral register by calling 01202 123400, or emailing elections@bcpcouncil.gov.uk
Those needing to register to vote can do so at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
Residents will not need to provide photo ID to vote by post.
To apply to vote by post, application forms must reach the council by 5pm on Tuesday 18 April 2023.
The full list of accepted ID is available on the Electoral Commission’s website, at: electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID
More information on BCP Council’s elections is available at: bcpcouncil.gov.uk/election2023
If residents need help, staff can support them at the BCP Civic Centre in Bournemouth. For further information and advice on this, call 01202 123400.