Deadline approaches for free voter ID ahead of general election

For the first time at a general election, voters will need to show photo ID to receive their ballot paper in polling stations. Those without an accepted type of ID can apply online for a Voter Authority Certificate, or by applying for and submitting a paper form to our Elections Team. Call 01354 654321 (open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, and Saturdays, 9am to 12noon) or email: elections@fenland.gov.uk.

Applicants must be registered to vote and will need to provide their date of birth, National Insurance number and a photograph.

Those that have an accepted form of ID already do not need to apply. Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK or EEA 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. For more information on acceptable forms of ID, visit our Voter ID webpage.

The general election is taking place on Thursday 4 July. In Fenland, there will also be by-elections for the Whittlesey South Ward of Fenland District Council and the St Andrews Ward of Whittlesey Town Council.

A council spokesperson said: "As the deadline to apply for free ID fast approaches, it is important that residents make sure they're election ready. If you need any help with applying for free ID or want to request an application form, you can contact our Elections Team on 01354 654321 (open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, and Saturdays, 9am to 12noon) or email: elections@fenland.gov.uk

Craig Westwood, Director of Communications at the Electoral Commission, said: "Photo ID is now a requirement to vote at polling stations at the general election. If you do not have accepted ID, you can still apply for a Voter Authority Certificate, which is a free form of identification.

"The availability of free ID helps ensure elections remain accessible to all eligible voters. But it is crucial that anyone who needs one applies before the deadline. That date is fast approaching so don't delay."

Voters who can't get to the polling station on election day also have the option to vote by post (if they have applied to vote by post by the 19 June deadline) or have someone they trust vote on their behalf (proxy). The deadline to apply for a proxy vote is 5pm on Wednesday 26 June.

Further information for voters

Poll cards

Poll cards have been sent to everyone currently registered to vote in Fenland. Some residents in Whittlesey will receive two poll cards - one for the general election and one for the by-elections. The by-election poll card is due to arrive by the second week of June.

Voters are being asked to check the details on their poll cards when they arrive to ensure they are correct, and to note the location of their polling station which may have changed. You do not need to take your poll card to the polling station to vote.

Polling stations

Polling stations will be open on Thursday 4 July from 7am to 10pm. Your poll card shows where your polling station is. You can also check where your polling station is using our postcode tool. You do not need to take your poll card to the polling station to vote.

Postal vote handling

Postal voters are advised to read the information sent through to them carefully when it arrives, especially in relation to new rules regarding handing in completed postal votes or votes on behalf of other people. Postal voters are requested wherever possible to send back their completed postal vote pack via Royal Mail as soon as possible to help manage demand. More information is available on our postal voting webpage.

Accessibility 

Everyone should be able to register and cast their vote without facing barriers. A new law, the Elections Act 2022, sets out extra support which we must provide, if you have a disability or accessibility need. This includes bringing another person to the polling station for support. More information on accessibility at polling stations.

If you would like extra help with voting or registering to vote, you can contact our Elections Team on 01354 654321 (open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, and Saturdays, 9am to 12noon) or email: elections@fenland.gov.uk

Timeline of key dates for Fenland ahead of 4 July elections:

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June 2024