Registration to vote closing. Deadline next week

Residents in the Avon and Somerset Police are are being urged to register to vote and check their Voter ID so they can have their say on who represents them in the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner election.

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) oversees your local police force and ensures they are prioritising what matters to you. The Avon and Somerset Police Area includes Bath & North East Somerset Council, Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council, Somerset Council and South Gloucestershire Council.

The full list of candidates including candidate statements can be viewed at www.choosemypcc.org.uk and details of the election can be found at www.avonpccelection.org.uk

In order to vote residents must be on the electoral register. With the deadline to register to vote fast approaching, Bath & North East Somerset Council is urging people who have not registered at their current address to make sure they are registered in time.

The deadline to register to vote is midnight on Tuesday 16 April. It takes just five minutes to apply online at www.gov.uk/registertovote. The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm Wednesday 17 April.

Residents without accepted photo ID wishing to vote in person will also need to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate.

Those who are registered to vote at the polling station, but do not have an accepted photo ID can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate before the deadline at 5pm on Wednesday 24 April.

Voters have a range of options for casting their ballot – in person, by post or by appointing someone they trust to vote in their place, known as a proxy vote. The deadline to apply for a proxy vote is 5pm on Wednesday 24 April. 

Will Godfrey, Police Area Returning Officer for the Avon and Somerset Police Area, said: “These elections are an important opportunity to make your voice heard and have a say on who represents you on issues that directly affect day-to-day life here in Bath and North East Somerset. If you’re not registered by 16 April, you won’t be able to vote. Voters will be required to take photo ID with them when they vote in person at the polling stations.”

If you have recently turned 18 or moved home, it is particularly important that you act to ensure that you are registered to vote. If you were registered to vote in the last election and your details have not changed, you don’t need to take any action. If in doubt, you can check with your local authority on 01225 477333.

If you have any questions about Voter ID or would like to request a paper form to apply for the Voter Authority Certificate, contact 01225 477333 or elections@bathnes.gov.uk.