Cornwall Residents Are You Election Ready? Check Your Photo ID and Registration Now!

As the UK Parliamentary Election on July 4 approaches, voters in Cornwall are being reminded to ensure they are registered to vote and possess a valid form of photo ID.

The deadline to register is swiftly approaching on June 18, and voters must bring their photo ID to the polling stations.

Accepted Forms of ID

Cornwall Council has outlined the accepted forms of ID which 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 (a PASS card)

The full list of acceptable IDs can be found on the Electoral Commission’s website. Interestingly, photo IDs can still be used if they are out of date, provided the photo still resembles the holder and the name matches the registration name.

Applying for Free Voter ID

For those who are registered to vote but do not have an accepted form of ID, a free Voter Authority Certificate can be obtained via the gov.uk website. The deadline to apply for this free ID is 5pm on June 26.

Kate Kennally, Returning Officer and Chief Executive at Cornwall Council, emphasised the importance of being prepared for the election. She encouraged residents needing assistance with the application process to contact the council.

“It is important that Cornwall’s residents make sure they’re election ready. If you need help applying for free ID or want to request an application form, please get in touch so we can support you with this. It may seem early but checking now means you will be ready to vote in July,” said Kate.

Alternative Voting Options

Voters also have options to vote by post or proxy if attending a polling station is not feasible. The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm on June 19, and for a proxy vote, the deadline is 5pm on June 26.

For more information on the various voting methods, residents are encouraged to visit the Cornwall Council website.

Assistance from Cornwall Council’s Elections Team

Cornwall Council’s Elections Team is available to assist those without accepted photo ID in applying for the free Voter Authority Certificate. They can also provide a paper application form if required.

Additionally, the team has developed a guide specifically for voters with disabilities, which includes easy-to-read guides on how to register and vote, and information on available support at polling stations.

Residents can contact the Elections Team by calling 01872 324 196 or emailing voter-registration@cornwall.gov.uk for any assistance related to voter registration or obtaining a Voter Authority Certificate.

Prepare now to ensure you can cast your vote on July 4 and make your voice heard!