Voters reminded to bring valid ID if voting in polling stations on 2 May

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK, EEA or Commonwealth photo drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo and the name on the ID should be the same name as appears on the Electoral Register. Only original documents will be accepted; scanned images or copies will not be accepted. 

Residents without an acceptable form of ID have until 5pm on 24 April to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate which will act as ID for people voting at a polling station. To apply for free ID online residents should visit voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk/ or they can complete a paper form which is available from the Council. 

Residents looking to hand in postal votes on the day of the election are also reminded that the rules for doing so have now changed. 

Electors may hand in postal votes at a polling station or the council offices but must complete a form before they leave. If the form is not completed, the council will have to reject the postal vote. No more than five postal votes (for each election) plus your own can be delivered by hand. 

The council is encouraging anyone using a postal vote to send them in via Royal Mail where at all possible with plenty of time before polling day.  

More information is available on the Cotswold District Council website, including details of how to apply for the free ID. Anyone not able to visit the council website, or apply for a Voter Authority Certificate online, is being encouraged to contact the Council by calling 01285 623002 or emailing elections@cotswold.gov.uk. 

Robert Weaver, Local Returning Officer for Cotswold District Council, said: 

“Anyone voting at a polling station in England this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it.  

“There are only a few days left to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate and I would encourage everyone to check they have valid ID. If you need any help with applying for the free ID, or want to request an application form, please contact us. 

“I would also ask people to check in with elderly neighbours, friends and family to make sure they understand the new ID requirements and have ID in place.”