There are a number of ways to have your say in the elections in May – you can vote in a polling station, by post, or by appointing someone you trust to vote on your behalf, which is known as a proxy vote and it is never too early to apply for a postal or proxy vote.  Many people are looking forward to taking a holiday, so make sure that you can still have your say, should you be away from home.   If you’re thinking about voting by post, you can apply now. This will make sure your application is processed early.

These crucial elections are for the councillors at county level who will oversee the transition to a new unitary council, which they will then lead to deliver all the promises and ambitions of the unitary business case.  The city, town and parish councillors elected have a vital role too, ushering in a new era of community empowerment. They will be pioneers, drawing on an array of new opportunities, driving real change locally.

We’re also making plans to help you stay safe at polling stations while casting your vote.  you can expect many of the measures we’ve all become used to in shops and banks such as hand sanitiser, and face masks, you can even bring your own pen/pencil. But if you are still uncertain about coming into a polling station, you also have the option to apply to vote by post or by proxy.

It is never too early to apply, you can find out more information by contacting us on 0300 303 7800 or by visiting the Electoral Commission website: www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voter.

You need to be registered to vote in order to have a say at the elections – the easiest way to register is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote