READING Borough Council is reminding voters that they will need photo ID to take part in this week’s elections.
Residents are going to the polls on Thursday, May 2, for the borough and Police and Crime Commissioner elections.
A seat in each of the 16 council wards in Reading is up for election, as well as re-election for the PCC, who will oversee Thames Valley Police.
The council is urging voters to bring photographic identification with them after the government introduced legislation which made photo ID a mandatory requirement to vote.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK passport, or one issued by the European Economic Area (EEA) or the Commonwealth; a UK or EEA driving license; some concessionary travel passes, including over 60s bus passes or 60+ Oyster cards; or a Voter Authority Certificate.
Voters are able to use ID which has expired as long as they are still recognisable.
Residents will be asked to show their ID on arrival at polling stations before they cast their vote.
Those without will be asked to return with valid ID before they are issued with a ballot paper, or may select another person to vote on their behalf by contacting the council’s electoral services team.
Those submitting postal votes are now being asked to use Royal Mail postboxes to return their votes or to hand them in at the council offices in Bridge Street.
For this round of elections, new legislation is in effect which requires those submitting postal votes to complete a necessary form, without which the vote will not be accepted.
Michael Graham, returning officer at Reading Borough Council, said: “For residents who are used to voting at their local polling station over many years, this is a significant change in routine.
“I’d urge anyone who votes in person to take some time to make sure they remember to bring their photo ID on the day, whether that means putting it in your bag or wallet the night before, leaving it by the front door so you can’t miss it on your way out to vote, or setting an alarm on your phone.”
He explained: “Remember, polling station staff will have no option but to send residents back home to collect their acceptable photo ID if they forget it, so we are doing everything we can to make sure people don’t have a wasted trip on the day.
“Staff are trained to handle requests for ID to be checked in private, discreetly and with courtesy. And if you need any help or advice before election day, you can contact the electoral services team on elections@reading.gov.uk or 0118 937 3717.”
The results of the borough elections will be announced early in the morning of Friday, May 3.
Full details about both the borough elections are available via: reading.gov.uk/the-council-and-democracy/
