Remember your Photo ID to Vote Next Thursday

RESIDENTS across Reading are once again being urged to remember to bring their photo ID with them when they visit their local polling station to vote on Thursday May 4.

A new requirement introduced by the Government means that for the first time ever this year, residents who choose to vote in person will need to show photo ID.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA drivers’ licence; some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card; and the new free Voter Authority Certificate, for those who applied for one. It’s important to note that voters will be able to use expired ID, as long as they are still recognisable from the photo. A full list of the ID which can be used is listed at the Electoral Commission website.

When residents arrive at their local polling station next Thursday, they will be asked by polling station staff to present their photo ID so it can be checked. A private area will be available so voters can opt to have their photo ID viewed in private if they prefer.

If a voter turns up at a polling station without an acceptable form of ID, they will be asked to return home to find their acceptable photo ID before they can be issued with a ballot paper. A poll card alone does not entitle someone to vote.

Michael Graham, Returning Officer at Reading Borough Council, said:

“For residents who are used to voting at their local polling station over many years, this is a significant change in routine. I’d urge anyone who votes in person to take some time to make sure they remember to bring their photo ID on the day, whether that means putting it in your bag or wallet the night before, leaving it by the front door so you can’t miss it on your way out to vote, or setting an alarm on your phone.

“Remember, polling station staff will have no option but to send residents back home to collect their acceptable photo ID if they forget it, so we are doing everything we can to make sure people don’t have a wasted trip on the day.

“Staff are trained to handle requests for ID to be checked in private, discreetly and with courtesy. And if you need any help or advice before election day, you can contact the electoral services team on elections@reading.gov.uk or 0118 937 3717.”

If voters lose their photo ID, or their Voter Authority Certificate does not arrive in time for election day, they can appoint an emergency proxy to vote on their behalf up until 5pm on election day. The person appointed as proxy, voting on someone else’s behalf, must have their own acceptable photo ID. Residents can do this by contacting the Electoral Services Team on elections@reading.gov.uk or 0118 937 3717.

Residents who are unsure where their local polling station is can check at Find your polling station | Where Do I Vote?

Residents are also being advised to take a minute to check their poll card carefully to ensure their details and voting method is correct.

One seat is up for election in all 16 council wards in Reading this year, the only exception being Park ward where 2 seats are up for election due to a by-election.

For a full list of candidates and other useful election information visit Local borough elections and casual vacancy 2023 - Reading Borough Council.

The Council’s communications team will be live tweeting ward by ward election results in the early hours of Friday May 5 at @readingcouncil.