In our second story on the forthcoming elections, we will focus on how to get a postal vote and what the election is all about.
Register to vote
If you are unsure that you are registered, then you should check now so you can vote in these elections. It only takes five minutes to register here on the gov.uk website; you must apply by Monday 19 April 2021.
Postal voting
Everyone is entitled to apply for a postal vote, so you can avoid the need to travel to the polling station on election day. Apply here on the Lambeth Council website. Whilst the deadline is 5pm Tuesday 20 April 2021, you really should apply early; a much increased demand is to be expected.
Proxy voting
This is where you nominate someone else to vote on your behalf. Again, you should apply now or as soon as possible on the Lambeth Council website. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government is changing the proxy voting rules so that those self-isolating as a result of coronavirus exposure, testing or symptoms will be able to apply for a proxy vote. The rules are complex so its important you follow the advice on the Lambeth website.
What election is this?
On Thursday 6 May 2021 there are three specific contests, with three different ballot papers for voters:
- the Mayor of London
- the 14 Members of the London Assembly that represent London’s 14 Constituencies (Lambeth is in the Lambeth and Southwark constituency)
- the 11 Assembly Members that represent the whole of London (London-wide Members).
You can find out more information about these elections in this helpful love.Lambeth story or more detail on the London Elects website, including the roles of the Mayor and London Assembly.
Safe voting at the Polling Station
Measures are to be put in place to ensure all polling stations are a safe place to vote. Voters can expect many of the safety measures we have all become used to over the past yeaar, such as the use of hand sanitiser, floor markings as guides to physical distancing, and face coverings. You are welcome to take along your own pen. See the video here.