Colchester residents are urged to check their information to ensure it is up to date on the electoral register and to prepare for the upcoming General Election on 4 July.
Here is what you need to know:
Here is what you need to know:
Everyone aged 18 or over must be registered to vote. If you have not registered yet, do so by Tuesday 18 June. It is quick and easy online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.
Look out for your polling card and confirm your polling station location. You do not need to register again if you receive one.
To vote in person, you can visit your polling station on Thursday 4 July. This is the easiest way to vote.
Anyone who is registered but unable to cast their vote at their polling station should apply for a postal vote or a proxy vote.
New rules are in place for postal voting. You’ll need to reapply every three years, even if you’re currently registered for postal votes. The deadline to apply is 5pm Wednesday 19 June. Apply online at www.colchester.gov.uk/elections/postalvote.
You can appoint someone to vote on your behalf. The deadline to apply is 5pm Wednesday 26 June. Apply online at www.colchester.gov.uk/elections/proxyvote. As a proxy, there are now limits to how many people you can vote on behalf of.
If after Wednesday, 26 June you have a medical condition or disability that prevents you from voting or must go away due to work, you can apply for an emergency proxy vote up until 5pm Thursday 4 July.
You now need to show photographic ID to vote in person. Accepted forms include passports, drivers’ licenses, and some concessionary travel passes. See the full list and apply for free ID if needed at https://voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk/.
Look out for your polling card and confirm your polling station location. You do not need to register again if you receive one.
To vote in person, you can visit your polling station on Thursday 4 July. This is the easiest way to vote.
Anyone who is registered but unable to cast their vote at their polling station should apply for a postal vote or a proxy vote.
New rules are in place for postal voting. You’ll need to reapply every three years, even if you’re currently registered for postal votes. The deadline to apply is 5pm Wednesday 19 June. Apply online at www.colchester.gov.uk/elections/postalvote.
You can appoint someone to vote on your behalf. The deadline to apply is 5pm Wednesday 26 June. Apply online at www.colchester.gov.uk/elections/proxyvote. As a proxy, there are now limits to how many people you can vote on behalf of.
If after Wednesday, 26 June you have a medical condition or disability that prevents you from voting or must go away due to work, you can apply for an emergency proxy vote up until 5pm Thursday 4 July.
You now need to show photographic ID to vote in person. Accepted forms include passports, drivers’ licenses, and some concessionary travel passes. See the full list and apply for free ID if needed at https://voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk/.
Colchester voters should also take note of the following important rules:
- Individuals submitting completed postal votes are now restricted to a maximum of five votes for other electors, in addition to their own postal vote, per election.
- Individuals as a proxy can only do so for a maximum of four people, of which no more than two can be domestic electors (a domestic elector is one who is not an overseas or service voter).
- A postal vote return form, including some personal details (name and address), must be completed along with a declaration.
Submission of Postal Votes:
- Postal votes should be returned as soon as possible via Royal Mail.
- Postal votes can also be returned in person to a designated member of staff authorised by the Returning Officer at Colchester Town Hall during office hours.
- Voters can also submit their postal votes at any designated polling station within the Colchester constituency on General Election Day 4 July 2024.
Pam Donnelly, Colchester City Council’s Acting Returning Officer, said: “Voting is not just a right but a crucial civic duty that shapes the future of our community and our country. By ensuring you are registered and informed about the voting process, you are taking an active role in democracy.
“Whether you vote in person, by post, or by proxy, every vote counts. Don’t let your voice go unheard – check your registration status, apply for a postal or proxy vote if needed, and remember to bring your photo ID on election day. Every vote matters and by taking these simple steps, you ensure your voice is heard.”
Important dates:
- Tuesday, 4 June: Polling cards sent out.
- Tuesday, 18 June: Deadline to register to vote.
- Wednesday, 19 June, 5pm: Deadline to apply for a postal vote.
- Wednesday, 26 June, 5pm: Deadline to apply for a proxy vote.
- Thursday, 4 July: General Election takes place.
Visit www.colchester.gov.uk/elections/general-election for information on polling stations, constituencies, and the voting process. Get informed and vote! Make sure you are ready to vote and have your say!
Page last reviewed: 10 June 2024