Residents in certain areas of West Oxfordshire are being advised to verify their electoral registration details before the local polls open.

Those living in the district should confirm they are on the electoral roll, have submitted requests for postal or proxy voting arrangements where necessary, and possess suitable photographic identification before the elections on Thursday, May 7.

Eligibility to take part requires being entered on the electoral register for the address where one lives.

Individuals who have relocated recently or are casting a ballot for the first time may find they have not yet completed registration.

The final date to register is Monday, April 20, and the process through the Government portal at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote takes just five minutes.

Giles Hughes, the returning officer for West Oxfordshire District Council, stated that with local elections scheduled for 7 May 2026, it is vital that prospective voters confirm their registration status, submit postal or proxy vote requests if preferred, and confirm they hold an accepted form of photographic identification for voting at their polling station.

He noted that although it may feel premature, submitting applications now ensures readiness for May and prevents the risk of missing the mandatory national deadlines.

Any person voting at a polling station in England this May will need to display photo identification before receiving a ballot paper, as required by national legislation.

He emphasised the importance of all voters understanding which forms of identification are acceptable and how to obtain free identification if required.

Applications for postal votes must reach the council by 5pm on Tuesday, April 21, and can be submitted through www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote.

Applicants will need to provide their national insurance number.

Those wishing to designate a proxy to vote on their behalf at their allocated polling station must submit applications by 5pm on Tuesday, April 28.

Forms are available online at www.gov.uk/apply-proxy-vote.

All electors attending in person must present valid photographic identification at the polling station.

Acceptable documents include a passport from the UK, EEA, or Commonwealth nations; a photocard driving licence; or specific concessionary travel passes including an older person’s bus pass or armed forces veteran card.

Out-of-date identification remains valid provided the photograph still clearly resembles the holder.

Those lacking suitable identification can request a complimentary Voter Authority Certificate through voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk.

Such applications must be made by 5pm on Tuesday, April 28.

Additional guidance, including instructions for obtaining the free Voter Authority Certificate, can be found on the West Oxfordshire District Council website.

Residents without internet access can ring the council on 01993 861410 to request paper forms for postal or proxy voting applications, or to apply for the free voter identification.