Voters in Norfolk have been urged to check they have an accepted form of photographic identification to vote in person during next week’s local elections.
A much-criticised electoral rule change brought in by the Conservative government means those turning up at polling stations on May 4 will need to show a valid photo ID before being given a voting slip.
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities says the vast majority of voters will already own an accepted form of identification, such as passports, driving licences, blue badges and Freedom travel passes for older people.
But those without accepted proof of their identity will need to apply for a voter authority certificate (VAC) before the deadline at 5pm on Tuesday (April 25).
The free service at www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate has been set up specifically to allow people to vote in the elections, giving them a form of photo ID which will be recognised at polling stations.
Those applying need to supply a recent, digital photo of themselves along with their National Insurance number, or, failing that, alternative documents such as birth certificate, bank statement or utility bill.
Trevor Holden, electoral registration officer for Broadland and South Norfolk, who recently produced a rap video about the need for voter ID, said: "Don’t lose your chance to have your say at elections in May.
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"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."
The Lib Dems, Labour and the Green Party are opposed to the change, but ministers have argued the move will ensure elections are better protected from the potential for voter fraud.
There are elections in Norwich, North Norfolk, South Norfolk, Breckland, Great Yarmouth and West Norfolk.
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