Council issues voter ID reminder ahead of elections

Derby City Council is reminding residents that they will need an accepted form of photographic ID to vote in the local elections this May.

Voters will need to show photographic ID – and the council is urging residents to check now and make sure they have the right forms of ID ahead of the elections.

In Derby, the new rules coincide with a move to whole council elections, where every seat on the council is up for election at the same time, with the successful candidates remaining in power for next four years.

In previous elections, residents have only voted for one councillor in their ward almost on a yearly basis.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK, EEA or Commonwealth drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass.

Voters will also be able to use expired eligible ID, if they are still recognisable in their photo.

Anyone who does not will be able to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate online or by completing a paper application form.

Emily Feenan, monitoring officer for Derby City Council, said: These will be the biggest local elections we’ve had in Derby for over half a century and it’s important that anyone wanting to vote has registered and has an accepted form of ID.

“While it may seem early, checking now means you will be ready to vote in May.”

Ailsa Irvine, director of Electoral Administration and Guidance for the Electoral Commission, 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.

“You can find information about the new requirement and what to expect at the polling station on the Electoral Commission’s website.”

Anyone who needs help with applying for the free ID or want to request an application form, should contact the electoral services team at elections@derby.gov.uk or call 01332 640837.