Voters are being urged to check they have the right photo ID ahead of the General Election as part of the ‘Find It FrIDay’ campaign.

People planning to vote in polling stations on 4 July will need to show a form of photographic ID from a prescribed list in order to receive their ballot paper.

Dubbed ‘Find it FrIDay’ voters are being urged to take time on Friday, 21 June to check they have an appropriate form of ID.

Anyone who does not have an appropriate form of photo ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate (VAC) up until 5pm on Wednesday, 26 June.

Ian Davidson, Acting Returning Officer for both the Clacton constituency and the Harwich and North Essex constituency, reminded voters it was important people looked for their appropriate photo ID while there was still time to apply for a VAC.

“Following a change in the law in 2022, there is a requirement for people to show ID before they vote at a polling station – and we want to make sure everyone is still able to cast their vote at the start of next month,” Mr Davidson said.

“By taking time on Find it FrIDay to make sure you have your photo ID – that the photo is still a good likeness now and it is in your registered name – you will be prepared for election day.

“If you cannot find a form of ID from the Government list, or the ID you do have is not going to be acceptable, then you still have time to apply for the free Voter Authority Certificate.”

Acceptable forms of photo ID include a UK passport or driving licence, Blue Badge, older or disabled person’s bus pass, PASS card or Defence Identity Card. A full list of acceptable photo IDs can be found at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/services/elections-and-voting.

Applying for a Voter Authority Certificate can be done online, you can pick up a paper form at the Town Hall in Clacton-on-Sea or a form can be requested by calling 01255 686575.

Polling stations will be open from 7am until 10pm on Thursday, 4 July.

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