Residents reminded to check they have Photo ID ahead of 4th May elections

Torridge Residents are being reminded to check they have an eligible form of photo ID ahead of this year's local elections.

The elections, which take place on Thursday, 4 May, will be the first in which photo ID is needed to vote at polling stations following the introduction of new Government legislation.  

Accepted forms of ID include passports and drivers' licences issued in the UK or European Economic Area, as well as some concessionary travel passes such as an older persons' bus pass. Voters can also use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo. Further details of acceptable ID can be found here List of Acceptable Photo ID

Anyone who does not have access to a suitable current or expired form of ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate before 5pm on Tuesday, 25 April, or register for a postal vote before 5pm on Tuesday, 18 April.

The council is taking steps to ensure residents are aware of these changes and further information about the Voter ID scheme will be sent out with Council Tax bills in the next few weeks.

Residents are advised to check the information provided and ensure they have a valid form of ID they can bring with them to their polling station on Thursday, 4 May as they will not be able to vote without this. 

Returning Officer at Torridge District Council, Steve Hearse, said:

"A list of all the different types of acceptable ID can be found online. We appreciate that not everyone will have a passport or similar document but a free and simple to obtain Voter Authority Certificate is available to anyone who doesn't have another form of ID. We would encourage everyone to pass on this information, particularly to the elderly, new first time voters, or those without internet access so that they are aware of the changes and are able to ensure they have everything they need to vote, well ahead of the 25 April deadline."    

Anyone who wishes to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate can do so on the Government website at www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate. Applicants will need a recent digital photograph of themselves and their national insurance number.

Voters without internet access or who need further help can also apply in person Monday to Friday 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 4.30pm at Torridge Council Offices at Riverbank House, Chanters Road in Bideford where customer service officers will be on hand to assist.

More information and contact details online at torridge.gov.uk/elections.

28 February 2023