Residents in South Gloucestershire have until the end of October to make sure they are registered to vote in the country’s first Police and Crime Commissioner election.
On Thursday 15th November, polls will open in the Avon and Somerset policing area – which includes South Gloucestershire – for the chance to vote for a Police and Crime Commissioner.
This is a new role that will replace the local Police Authority. The Commissioner will produce a police and crime plan setting out local policing priorities for your area, set the annual policing budget and will appoint and oversee the Chief Constable.
The elections use a different system of voting called the supplementary voting system. You will have two votes, one for your first choice candidate and one for your second choice.
Who can vote in the election? Any eligible South Gloucestershire resident over the age of 18 who is registered to vote. Poll cards will be issued to all eligible electors. Contact South Gloucestershire Council’s Electoral Services on 01454 863030 if you need any help with registration or visit www.southglos.gov.uk/pcc.
Between 22nd October and 2nd November the Electoral Commission will send every household in England and Wales a booklet about the elections and the supplementary voting system. If you do not receive your copy by 2nd November, please telephone the Electoral Commission on 0800 328 0280.
Other key dates for the election are:
- 19th October – poll cards issued
- 26th October – Police and Crime Commissioner candidate information published
- 31st October – deadline for electoral registration and postal voting applications
- 3rd November – postal vote packs issued by first class post
- 7th November – deadline for proxy vote applications
- 15th November – Polling day from 7am to 10pm.
Police and Crime Commissioners will be elected in 41 areas across England and Wales.
Find out more about the role of Police and Crime Commissioners at www.homeoffice.gov.uk/pcc and general information about voting at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk.
Source: South Gloucestershire Council
