People across Nottinghamshire are being told not to "lose their voice" in upcoming elections by making sure that they comply with new Government rules. The Elections Act passed last year means that people now have to bring a form of photo ID with them when they vote at an election.
The first set of elections it will affect will be the upcoming local votes across the UK on May 4. Elections will be taking place for all of Nottinghamshire's seven district and borough councils, as well as at Nottingham City Council.
Ahead of the voting, district councils are now urging people to make sure that they are complaint with the new rules on bringing ID. Passports and driving licences can be used, even if they are out of date, as long as the person still resembles the photo.
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Adam Hill, the returning officer at Mansfield District Council. said: "With Mayoral and district council elections taking place in this district in May, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they have an accepted form of ID, following the introduction of new legislation by Government. This will mean that you will need to provide suitable identification when casting your vote.
"Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate online, by post or in person. It is also very important that people make sure they are included on the register so that they do not lose their voice. I would encourage our residents to ensure they are registered ahead of May."
Applications for a Voter Authority Certificate, for those who don't already have an accepted form of ID, need to be made by 5pm on April 25 to be in time for the local elections in May. Ailsa Irvine, Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance at 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."
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