Some of you will be voting in the borough’s local elections for the first time next Thursday (7 May).
This could be because you have just turned 18, recently moved into the area, or have not long gained the right to vote. Others, perhaps, may not have voted in a while and want to do so again.
When is polling day?
Polling day is Thursday 7 May. If you have applied to vote by post, follow the instructions included with your postal ballot pack.
If you plan to vote in person on 7 May, here is what you need to know.
Polling card
All registered voters should have received their polling card. Your polling card includes details of your polling station and the ID you will need to bring with you. You do not need to bring your polling card to vote but it can be helpful.
Where is my polling station?
Polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 7 May. The address of your polling station will be shown on your polling card. You can also find your polling station on the council website.
Who can I vote for?
The list of candidates standing in your ward (an area of the borough) is available on the council website. There are 24 wards in the borough. In 22 of these wards, voters will elect 3 councillors; in the remaining 2 wards, voters will elect 2 councillors.
What else do I need to bring?
You must bring an acceptable form of photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence. If you do not have suitable photo ID, you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate on the council website. A full list of acceptable forms of ID is on the council website.
What happens when I get to the polling station?
When you arrive, polling station staff will be there to help. They are trained to support voters, make sure the process is fair, and protect your privacy.
Staff will ask for your name and address and will check your photo ID. Bringing your polling card can help, but your photo ID is essential.
You will then be given a ballot paper listing the candidates you can vote for. Follow the instructions on the notices in the polling booth and at the top of the ballot paper to cast your vote.
Voting if you have accessibility needs
Ealing Council has put measures in place to support voters with accessibility needs, including wheelchair ramps, low-level polling booths, large-print ballot papers and other equipment to support deaf and partially sighted/blind voters.
If you need additional support to vote, or would like more information, contact the council’s elections team on 020 8825 7777 (9am–5pm, weekdays) or email elections@ealing.gov.uk
