Here is everything you need to know if you want to make your voice heard in the upcoming local elections on 6th May!
1. REGISTER TO VOTE!
It's number one on this list for a reason - its so important yet so easy to do! If you are not already registered to vote, you must do so by midnight on Monday 19th April. This can be done in just 5 minutes by filling out the online form at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
2. VOTE BY POST!
All postal vote applications must be submitted before 5pm on Tuesday 20th April. With the COVID-19 pandemic still preventing a return to normal, people are being encouraged to vote by post. Polling stations will be socially distanced and run in accordance with the
guidlines and this could cause delays and queues. Registering to vote by post removes this hassle and keeps you and your community safe! The application forms can be downloaded at www.gov.uk/government/publications/apply-for-a-postal-vote
3. BRING A PEN!
In order to keep polling stations safe, local councils are encouraging individuals to bring a pen or pencil with them. The councils should still be providing writing implements but it may be better to bring your own just in case. You can read about this further here
4. WHAT AM I VOTING FOR?
On May 6th, elections will take place for local councils, 13 directly elected mayors and 40 police and crime commissioners in England and Wales. You can find a detailed explanation of the different local councils here. There will also be - depending on where abouts you live - elections for London mayor and assembly and both the Welsh and Scottish parliaments. These elections will be bigger than usual as some votes, postponed due to the pandemic last year, have been rescheduled.
5. WHO CAN I VOTE FOR?
This website https://whocanivotefor.co.uk/ is really helpful and simple to use. Just pop in your postcode and it will desplay detailed profiles of all the candidates standing in your area!
If you'd like some more information on the local elections the BBC has a really good breakdown and explanation here
Any questions just get in touch - I am happy to help! :-)
Remember, regardless of who you decide to vote for, make your voice heard on May 6th!
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