Residents in the Isles of Scilly are being urged to remember their photo ID when they go to vote in the Police and Crime Commissioner election on 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 drivers’ licence; some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card; and the new 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.
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, along with more information about the new requirement, is available on the Electoral Commission’s website.
Russell Ashman, Returning Officer at the Council of the Isles of Scilly, said:
“With only three days to go, make sure you’re ready for the election on 2 May. Check that you’ve got an accepted form of ID and remember to bring it with you to the polling station on election day. If you need any help, you can contact Electoral Services on 01720 424545 or at elections@scilly.gov.uk.”
If voters lose their ID, or their Voter Authority Certificate does not arrive in time for election day, they can appoint an emergency proxy to vote on their behalf up until 5pm on election day. The person appointed as proxy, voting on someone else’s behalf, must have their own acceptable photo ID.
Further information
For more information, contact Electoral Services on 01720 424545 or at elections@scilly.gov.uk. You can also contact the Electoral Commission press office on 020 7271 0704 or at press@electoralcommission.org.uk
