West Oxfordshire urged to prepare to vote in May elections

Voters are advised to ensure they are registered, have applied for postal voting if required, and have the necessary identification ready ahead of May 2.

Those looking to vote must be over the age of 18 and registered in their residing area.

Some eligible voters who are not registered, perhaps due to recent relocation or voting for the first time, are reminded that they will not be able to cast a vote if not registered.

People can register to vote online via the government website.

Registered voters will receive their poll cards at the end of March, and provided the card is accurate, there is no need to reapply.

The final date to register for voting is April 16.

Voting by post may be an appealing option for residents seeking to participate in the local elections from their home's comfort.

Residents can apply to receive their vote by post before the application cut-off at 5pm on April 17 via the government website.

A national insurance number is mandatory for the application, and existing postal vote arrangement holders need not reapply.

Another voting alternative is appointing a proxy, who, upon appointment, will need to present their own valid ID when voting on behalf of the elector.

Proxy voting applications must be received by 5pm on April 24 and the application process can be carried out on the government website.

Voters are being reminded to check they have a valid form of photo ID (Image: Andrew Matthews/PA)

Voters are also encouraged to ensure that they possess an accepted photographic identification.

Acceptable IDs include UK, EEA, or Commonwealth passport or photocard drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes like an older person’s bus pass.

Expired IDs are also accepted, as long as the voter can be identified by the photograph.

If the names on the ID and the one claimed at the polling station differ, additional proof of identity might be required.

Free ID can be obtained online by anyone who does not have the required forms of ID, or via a paper form available from the Council.

The last day to apply for Voter Authority Certificate is 5pm, April 24.

Giles Hughes, Returning Officer for West Oxfordshire District Council, said: "With district council and police and crime commissioner elections on 2 May 2024, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they are registered, have applied for a postal or proxy vote if they prefer, and to ensure they have an accepted form of photo ID for voting in the polling station."

He added: "It may seem early but applying now means you will be ready to vote in May and won’t risk missing the national deadlines."