Voters reminded to check they’re election ready before it’s too late

There is only a week to go until the voter registration deadline for local elections in Dorset on 2 May.

If you aren’t already on the register, the easiest way to register to vote is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

The deadline to register to be able to vote is 11.59pm on Tuesday 16 April.

Recent home movers and residents who have just turned 18 are urged to check their details.

Once registered, voters have a range of options – they can vote in person, by post or by appointing someone they trust to vote in their place, known as a proxy vote. The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm on Wednesday 17 April. The deadline to apply for a proxy vote is a week later, 5pm on Wednesday 24 April.

In addition, all those who choose to vote in person will be required to bring an accredited form of photo ID, such as a driver’s licence, blue badge, or passport with them.  You don’t need a photo ID to vote by post or proxy.

Other valid forms of photo ID are acceptable. Please check here to see if your photo ID is valid.

If you do not have one of the accepted types of ID, you can apply for free ID at www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate  by 5pm on Wednesday 24 April, to be able to use the Voter Authority Certificate on 2 May.

Local Digital Champions can also help you to apply for your Voter ID certificate. They are a group of friendly and patient volunteers who are good at explaining computers, without using jargon. They have an enthusiasm for all things digital and look forward to the chance to show you how it works. 

They offer digital support for a wide range of issues, no problem is too small.

To book to see a Digital Champion, please call 01305 221048.

Jonathan Mair, Director of Legal and Democratic at Dorset Council, said:

“Don’t lose your chance to have your say at elections in May. Local elections are an important opportunity to have your say on who represents you and makes decisions about issues that directly affect day-to-day life here in Dorset. 

“If you’re in doubt about whether you need to register to vote or have questions about how to apply for a postal or proxy vote, or free ID, you can contact the electoral services team.”

Email:  elections@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Tel: 01305 838299