Your 2024 Voting Checklist: Polling Stations, ID Requirements, and More

With just one week to go until the General Election on July 4th, it’s crucial for voters to be prepared. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure you’re ready to cast your vote without any hassle.

Where is My Polling Station?

Your polling station location is indicated on your poll card, so make sure to check it as it may have changed since the last election. If you’re unsure, you can use the polling station finder by typing in your postcode. Remember, you must vote at the polling station assigned to you.

Polling Station Timings

All polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on election day. If you’ve opted to vote by post, ensure your postal ballot pack is returned by 10pm on July 4. If you miss the postal deadline, you can hand it in at your local polling station.

Who Can Vote?

To vote, you must be 18 or over and registered to vote. If you meet these criteria, you’re good to go.

What if I Need Help?

If you need assistance at the polling station, you can bring someone with you or ask the presiding officer for help. Large print versions of the ballot paper and tactile voting devices will be available for blind and partially sighted voters. The presiding officer can also read out the candidates’ names and help mark the ballot paper if needed. For additional support, contact Cornwall Council’s elections team at 01872 324 196 or email voter-registration@cornwall.gov.uk.

What ID Can I Use?

To vote, you must bring photo ID. Accepted forms include:

• Passport
• Driving licence
• Government issued older or disabled person’s bus pass
• Blue Badge
• Defence Identity Card
• Identity card with the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram (PASS card)

The full list of accepted IDs is available on the Electoral Commission’s website. Note that you can still use your photo ID even if it’s expired, provided it looks like you, and the name matches the one used to register to vote.

Additional Tips for Polling Day

Pens: Pens are provided at the polling stations, but you can bring your own if you prefer.

Photography: Do not take photos inside the polling station to protect ballot secrecy. However, you can take photos outside and share them on social media to encourage others to vote.

Companions: You can go to the polling station with anyone, but only registered voters at that station (and children) can go inside. Adults cannot accompany each other into the polling booth unless one has a disability. Children are welcome and can join you in the polling booth, but they must not mark the ballot paper.

Who Am I Voting For?

In Cornwall, there are six constituencies, and one MP will be elected to represent each. You can view all the candidates standing in your constituency on the Cornwall Council website.

Where Can I Find the Results?

The election results will be published on the elections page of the Cornwall Council website.

Make sure you’re prepared for July 4th. Check your polling station, bring the right ID, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Every vote counts!