Derbyshire Dales residents need photo ID to vote at elections in May

We have received the following news release from DDDC:

"For the first time, residents in the Derbyshire Dales will need to show photographic ID to vote at this year's local elections on Thursday 4 May.

The new requirement to show photo ID at a polling station was introduced by the UK Government's Elections Act, which was passed last year and comes into effect for the first time next month.

Derbyshire Dales voters can check if they already have acceptable ID on the District Council's website at www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/VoterPhotoID, where they can also apply for free ID by 25 April.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport, a UK, EEA or Commonwealth drivers' licence and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person's bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Photo ID is not however needed for postal voters. The deadline for new postal votes is 5pm on 18 April.

Ailsa Irvine, Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance, said: "Anyone voting at a polling station in England this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. It's important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it."

Paul Wilson, Returning Officer at Derbyshire Dales District Council, said: "With district, town and parish elections taking place here in the Derbyshire Dales on 4 May, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they have an accepted form of ID. Checking now means you will be ready to vote in May.

"Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for free ID either online or by completing a paper application form and sending this to our electoral services team. If you need any help with applying for the free ID or want to request an application form, contact the electoral services team at electoral@derbyshiredales.gov.uk or call 01629 761 335."

Anyone who wants to have their say in the May elections must also be registered to vote. It only takes five minutes to register online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. Voters wishing to apply to their council for free ID should first make sure they are registered to vote."