Remember to bring your photo ID to vote
Residents in Warwick District are being urged to remember their ID when they go to vote on Thursday 2 May.
Voters will need to show photo ID at polling stations before they can receive their ballot paper. Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA driver’s licence; some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card; and the free Voter Authority Certificate. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
At polling stations, voters will be required to present ID to be checked by polling station staff. A private area will be available at the polling station for anyone who wants their photo ID viewed in private.
Chris Elliott, Returning Officer at Warwick District Council, said: “With just over a week to go, make sure you’re ready for the Police and Crime Commissioner election and Leamington Clarendon by-election on 2 May. Check that you’ve got an accepted form of ID and remember to bring it with you so that you don’t miss out on the opportunity to vote. If you need any help, you can contact the Electoral Services team on 01926 456105 or email elections@warwickdc.gov.uk.”
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 you have the ID you need to vote.
“Anyone concerned about showing their face at a polling station because they wear a face covering, for example, 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.”
The full list of accepted ID and more information about the requirement are available on the Electoral Commission’s website.
