With only a short time left until the voter registration deadline for the local elections on 7 May, anyone who wants to vote must make sure they are registered in time.

Research shows that some groups, including young people, students and those who have recently moved, are less likely to be registered than others. The deadline to register to vote is midnight on Monday 20 April. Voters can apply online at gov.uk/register-to-vote. It takes just five minutes.

Once registered, voters can choose how they wish to take part in the elections. They may vote in person at their polling station, vote by post, or appoint someone they trust to vote on their behalf through a proxy vote.

Anyone voting in person will need to show photo ID at the polling station. Details of accepted forms of ID are available on the Electoral Commission website. Most residents will already have a valid form of photo ID and will not need to take any further action.

Those without an accepted form of ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate at gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate, or by completing and returning a paper application to the Council.

Jonathan Stephenson, Electoral Registration Officer for Rochford District Council said: “Don’t lose your chance to have your say at elections in May. Local elections are an important opportunity to have your say on who represents you and makes decisions about issues that directly affect day-to-day life here in Rochford.

“If you’re in doubt about whether you need to register to vote, or have questions about how to apply for a postal or proxy vote, or free ID, you can contact our Electoral Registration team by emailing elections@rochford.gov.uk.”

Niki Nixon, Director of Communications at the Electoral Commission, said: “It’s important that people check they’re ready to vote ahead of the upcoming local elections. All voters must be registered, and some may need to apply for a postal, proxy vote or free ID.

“If you’ve changed address or moved home since you last registered, it takes just five minutes to update your details online. Checking now helps make sure you can vote in a way that’s right for you.

“Voters will also need to show photo ID at polling stations this May. Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of photo ID can apply for free ID online or by submitting a paper form to their local council.”

For clear and trusted information about registering to vote and the full range of voting options, please visit our website at www.rochford.gov.uk/elections. You can also visit the Electoral Commission’s official website at www.electoralcommission.org.uk for further guidance.

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