Wednesday 05-05-2021 - 09:45

 

Bristol's Local elections are fast approaching! Elections will take place tomorrow (Thursday 5 May) to elect: 

• the Mayor of Bristol 
• all Bristol City Council Councillors
• the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC)
• the Combined Authority Mayor for the West of England (WECA)

 

Why should I vote?

Local democracy is important. Use your right to vote to have your say and bring about the local change you want to see. 

You'll be voting to elect the next Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset. Recent Extinction Rebellion, Black Lives Matter and Kill The Bill protests have led to discussions around the nature of policing. Who do you want to be making these key policing decisions? 

You'll also be electing the new Mayor of Bristol. They have considerable powers and make ‘executive’ decisions on policy and budget matters. They are often the spokesperson for Bristol affairs in the national media. Who do you want to be Bristol's voice to the wider world? 

Bristol has long been a centre for protest and activism. The past year has clearly shown that there are strong political sentiments in our city. Make sure you use your vote to elect people who you want to be responding to these demands for change.

 

How do I know if I am registered?

The deadline to register to vote has already passed - if you’re not sure whether you’re already registered or not, you can check on the Bristol City Council website.
 

How do I vote? 

You can vote in person at your local polling station, or via postal or proxy vote. Once registered, you should have been sent a poll card which will tell you your current voting arrangements. If you're voting in the polling station it will include details of where you need to go. If you've lost your poll card, you can enter your address to find out where your polling station will be.

Covid safety measures will be in place. You should wear a face covering, unless you are exempt. 

 

Can I vote in Bristol and at home?

If your home and university addresses are in two different local authority areas, you can vote in local elections in both areas. This is because they are separate elections. You will need to have already registered to vote at both addresses. Enter your postcode here for more information about which elections are taking place in your area. 

 

How can I find out more? 

On the Who Can I Vote For? website you can find:

• Mayor of Bristol candidates.
• Bristol City Council Councillor candidates.
• Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner candidates.
• Combined Authority Mayor for the West of England candidates.