REDDITCH Borough residents will need to show photographic ID for the first time in order to vote at this year’s local elections.
Residents are being urged to make sure they are ready to vote in May by checking they have an accepted form of ID.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence, some concessionary travel passes such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card.
Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID.
Redditch Borough’s returning officer, Sue Hanley, said: “Now that the law has changed it is vital that those who want to vote on May 4th make sure they have an accepted form of ID.
“This applies to everyone voting at a polling station, so please consider getting ready now and avoid any late rush.
“If you don’t already have one of the accepted forms of ID, you can apply for free ID either online or by sending in a paper application form.
The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station, is a new requirement, introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act which was passed last year, It comes into effect for the first time this May.
Visit www.redditchbc.gov.uk/elections to read about the new requirement.
Alternatively, call 01527 881421 for Redditch Borough Council’s Electoral Services team.
