READING Borough Council is reminding residents that applications to apply for free voter identification is due to close next week.
National legislation means that the government will require voters to show photographic I.D. when attending polling stations for the first time.
Those voting in person can use a passport, driving license or provisional license, a Blue badge, or biometric immigration documents to prove their identity.
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 a certificate is 5pm on Tuesday, April 25.
Certain concessionary travel cards such those given to the elderly, including bus passes and Oyster 60+ cards, are permissable.
Identity cards bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram are permissable, as are Defence Identity Cards and certain other national identity cards.
Expired forms of identity are still permissable as long as they are still recognisable from the photograph.
The deadline for applying to vote by proxy closed on Tuesday, April 18.
Michael Graham, Reading Borough Council’s Returning Officer, said: “As the deadline to apply for free ID looms, it is important that residents of Reading make sure they’re election ready.
“If you already hold an acceptable form of ID, you do not need to apply. For those residents who do not have the right ID, it is important they know they have until Tuesday April 25 at 5pm to apply.
“Anyone who needs advice or help with applying for free ID, or wants to request an application form, can contact the electoral services team on elections@reading.gov.uk or 0118 937 3717.”
Local elections are now set to take place on Thursday, May 4.
Full information about elections as well as FAQs are available online via reading.gov.uk.
Residents can also contact RBC with any queries by email at: Elections@reading.gov.uk
