Several deadlines for voters in the Grantham parish council elections on 2nd May are drawing near, with less than a week to go for those wishing to apply for a postal vote – and under a week left to register to vote.
These deadlines also apply to the Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner vote, taking place on the same day.
As the first set of postal voting ballot papers are sent out to those already accepted, it is important to note that new postal voters must complete their application by the end of Wednesday 17th April.
There are two ways to apply for a postal vote. To apply online, visit https://www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote
Alternatively, download an application and send by email to elections@southkesteven.gov.uk or by post to: Electoral Registration Officer, South Kesteven District Council, Council Offices, The Picture House, St Catherine's Road, Grantham NG31 6TT.
Completed applications for a postal vote must be received by 5pm on Wednesday 17 April 2024.
The first mailing of postal vote packs (for residents whose application is already processed will be sent from 15th April, with a second batch to follow from 22nd April.
There are new rules for returning a postal vote. The easiest way is to use Royal Mail via a normal letterbox. Postal votes can no longer be posted in the SKDC letter box at the Council offices as they will be rejected. They need to be handed in to an authorised officer at the office during office hours or at a polling station on election day.
People have until midnight on Tuesday 16th April to register to vote online via gov.uk/register-to-vote. Anyone in doubt can check if they are registered with SKDC by email to elections@southkesteven.gov.uk or by phone on 01476 406080.
Karen Bradford, Chief Executive and Returning Officer for the District, said: “Polling cards have been sent to residents eligible to vote and although they are not required at the polling station, they tell you where to cast your vote.
“If you intend to vote in person, you will also need to take a valid form of photo identification, such as a passport or driving licence, and a full list of acceptable ID is available on the South Kesteven website.
“Forty candidates have declared they will contest the 22 Parish Council seats for Grantham, with five candidates standing for election as Police and Crime Commissioner. The full list of candidates can be found at our website www.southkesteven.gov.uk/elections2024”
Anyone without photo ID can apply for a free voter authority certificate online via gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate until 5pm on 24th April.