On Thursday 6 May residents in Bath and North East Somerset will have their say on who represents them at the West of England Mayoral Election and the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner election.
In order to vote in these important elections, residents must be on the electoral register. With the deadline to register to vote fast approaching, Bath & North East Somerset Council is urging people who have not registered at their current address to make sure they are registered in time.
The deadline to register to vote is midnight on Monday 19 April. It takes just five minutes to apply online at www.gov.uk/registertovote. This year residents in Bath & North East Somerset will be voting in two different elections and will select:
• The West of England, or Regional Mayor leads the West of England Combined Authority which works to champion the region and drive clean and inclusive economic growth. Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire councils are members of WECA.
• The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), who oversees your local police force and ensures they are prioritising what matters to you
Will Godfrey, Electoral Registration Officer for Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “These elections are an important opportunity to make your voice heard and have a say on who represents you on issues that directly affect day-to-day life here in Bath & North East Somerset. If you’re not registered by 19 April, you won’t be able to vote.”
Ailsa Irvine, Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance at the Electoral Commission said: “You can’t have your say in these important elections unless you are registered to vote. It’s quick and easy – it takes just five minutes online at www.gov.uk/registertovote
“If you have recently turned 18 or moved home, it is particularly important that you act to ensure that you are registered to vote. If you were registered to vote in the last election and your details have not changed, you don’t need to take any action. If in doubt, you can check with your local authority on 01225 477333.”
Voters have a range of options for casting their ballot – in person, by post or by appointing someone they trust to vote in their place, known as a proxy vote. For those who choose to vote in person, polling stations will be safe places to vote on 6 May.
The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm on 20 April, and for a proxy vote the deadline is 5pm on 27 April.
For more information on the West of England Mayoral election please visit www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk
For more information on the Police and Crime Commissioner election please visit www.avonpccelection.org.uk
Virtual briefing for candidates and agents at the election of the Police and Crime Commissioner
People interested in standing as a candidate at the Police and Crime Commissioner election are invited to attend a virtual live briefing on 16 March. At the briefing the Police Area Returning Officer will explain in detail the nomination process and other key arrangements for the election. Please email elections@bathnes.gov.uk to register your interest.
Candidates and agents wanting a briefing about the West of England Mayoral election should email Philippa.Penney@WestOfEngland-
