VOTERS in Reading are encouraged to check they are election ready ahead of local elections next month.
With just three weeks left to register before voting takes place in May, Reading Borough Council is urging residents to make sure that they are registered to vote.
The upcoming vote is the first since new voter ID laws were passed in January, in spite of a number of concerns, meaning elections now require photographic identification to participate.
Those voting in person can use a passport, driving license or provisional license, a Blue badge, or biometric immigration documents to prove their identity.
Certain concessionary travel cards such as those given to the elderly, including bus passes and Oyster 60+ cards, are permissible.
Identity cards bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram are permissible, as are Defence Identity Cards and certain other national identity cards.
Expired forms of identity are still permissible as long as they are still recognisable from the photograph.
Those without a valid form of I.D. can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate via the government website or by requesting a printed form via Reading’s Electoral Services Team.
The deadline for applying for these certificates is 5pm on Tuesday, April 25.
They can also vote by proxy, through another person chosen by the voter, or by post, which will not require photo I.D.
Michael Graham, Electoral Registration Officer for Reading Borough Council, said: “Don’t lose your chance to have your say at elections in May.
“Local elections are an important opportunity to have your say on who represents you and makes decisions about issues that directly affect day-to-day life here in Reading.
“If you’re in doubt about whether you need to register to vote, or have questions about how to apply for a postal or proxy vote, or free ID, you can contact Reading Borough Council on 0118 937 3717 or Elections@reading.gov.uk”.
Residents who do not have an accepted form of ID can apply online for a free Voter Authority Certificate via: gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate.
Full details about what is needed to take part in elections and information about voting I.D. are available via: electoralcommission.org.uk.
