| Voters across the Forest of Dean are being encouraged to make sure they are registered and have applied for postal voting if needed ahead of the deadlines so that they can vote in the local elections on 6 May. You are still able to vote in-person. |
| To take part in any election anyone over the age of 18 must be registered in the area they live in. Some people eligible to vote may not be registered and therefore will not be able to cast a vote. This may be because they have recently moved or are voting for the first time. Poll cards which contain information on a voters polling station and election details have now been sent to all individuals registered to vote. Any residents who have registered and not received a poll card should contact Forest of Dean District Council. Residents can still register to vote through the Government website which takes only five minutes to complete. Some residents prefer to vote by post or by proxy – where another individual casts a vote on a registered voter’s behalf when that individual cannot vote themselves. To be able to use a proxy vote applications must normally be in by 5pm on Tuesday 27 April . This year, there are emergency powers which mean that you can apply for a proxy up to 5pm on the 6th of May if you have COVID-19 symptoms or have been asked to self isolate. By using a postal vote residents can make sure their voice is heard at the local elections from the safety of their home. Residents can apply for postal voting now and have to get their application in before the deadline of 5pm on 20 April. Voters can apply for postal or proxy voting by visiting the council website at https://www.fdean.gov.uk/about-the-council/elections-and-voting/register-to-vote/, emailing elections@fdean.gov.uk or calling 01594 812628. Andrew Knott, Returning Officer for Forest of Dean District said, “I would urge people to make sure they are registered ahead of the required deadlines so that they have the chance to have their say in this year’s local elections.” “For anyone interested in voting by post this year they need to make sure they apply for their postal vote before 5pm on the 20 April 2021. We are quickly approaching the deadline and I would encourage people to sign up sooner rather than later.” |
| Contact Information Forest of Dean Communications Team media@fdean.gov.uk |
