Voters encouraged to sign up to postal voting for May local elections
Voters across the Forest of Dean District are being encouraged to sign up now for postal voting at this year's local elections which are due to be held on 6 May 2021.
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 20 April.
Polling stations this year will have a different feel to previous years with COVID-19 safety measures being put in place in line with government guidance.
Even with a successful roll out of the vaccine, and a reduction in cases, there may still be residents who are concerned about visiting a polling station and they are being encouraged to use a postal vote as an alternative to voting in person.
To be able to use a postal vote in this year’s elections voters must apply to do so with their local council by 20 April 2021. Voters can ask for an application form by visiting the council website at fdean.gov.uk or calling 01594 810000.
A letter will be going to all residents in the Forest of Dean District in the coming weeks to check voter information is accurate ahead of the election and this will include information on whether individuals are already signed up for postal voting and how to apply if they are not.
Andrew Knott, Returning Officer for the Forest of Dean District said, “Despite the great progress with the vaccine rollout we have to plan for the fact that voter safety will be a priority in the May elections and I would really like to encourage all voters to consider postal voting as an option for making sure their voice is heard at elections this year.
“Voting in person at polling stations will follow all the required safety procedures but we understand some people may still be concerned and postal voting is a safe and secure way of taking part in the elections in 2021.
“For anyone interested in voting by post this year they just need to make sure they apply for their postal vote before the 20 April 2021 and I would encourage people to sign up sooner rather than later so they don't miss the deadline.”