Are You Ready to Vote? Cornwall’s Police Commissioner Election Requires Photo ID

As Cornwall prepares for the upcoming Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) election on May 2, residents are reminded to bring a valid photo ID to their polling stations.

This new requirement, part of the UK Government’s Elections Act which took effect in May 2023, mandates that all voters present one of the several accepted forms of identification to participate in the elections.

Acceptable Forms of ID

Voters can use any of the following IDs, even if they are out of date, as long as the photo is recognisable:

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

The name on the ID must match the name used to register to vote. Detailed information on acceptable IDs can be found on the Electoral Commission’s website.

No ID? No Problem!

Residents who do not possess any of the accepted forms of ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate. Applications are open until 5pm on April 24 and can be made online through the gov.uk website or by a paper form available from Cornwall Council’s electoral services.

For assistance with applications or to request a form, residents can contact the electoral services team at 01872 324196 or via email at voter-registration@cornwall.gov.uk.

A Word From Cornwall Council

Kate, the Returning Officer and Chief Executive at Cornwall Council, urges voters to prepare early. “With the Police and Crime Commissioner election taking place on May 2, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they have an accepted form of ID. It may seem early, but checking now means you will be ready to vote in May,” she advises.

Understanding the Role of PCC

The PCC election is a significant event that determines who will oversee the local police force. The elected PCC is responsible for the policing of the area, the police budget, council tax rates for police funding, public information on policing, and the appointment of the Chief Constable. They also engage with the public and local organisations to set policing plans and initiate community projects.

They are responsible for: 

• How the area is policed
• Setting the police budget and making sure it is spent effectively
• The amount of Council Tax charged for the police
• The information you get about what local police are doing
• Appointing the Chief Constable
• Engaging with the public and victims of crime to help set police and crime plans and organising projects within the community
• Working closely with local councils and other community organisations on these plans and projects

Candidates and Further Information

Three candidates are competing in the upcoming election. For more information on each candidate’s policies and background, voters are encouraged to visit choosemypcc.org.uk.

Residents are advised to make the necessary preparations to ensure they can participate in this crucial electoral process. The right to vote is foundational, and by ensuring you have the proper identification, you can make your voice heard this May.