Postal voters urged to act

Under new rules introduced by the Elections Act 2022, postal votes are now valid for a maximum of three years. This means that anyone who applied for a postal vote before 31 October 2023 must reapply by 31 January 2026 to continue voting by post, including in the May 2026 elections. The change affects around 37,500 voters in the two districts.

The Councils’ Managing Director Trevor Holden, said:

We’re encouraging all affected postal voters to reapply as early as possible to avoid any disruption. If your postal vote is affected, we’ll contact you directly, so please keep an eye out for your reapplication letter and respond promptly. Reapplying is quick and easy and ensures you can continue voting securely from the comfort of your home.”

How to reapply:

• Visit www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote

• You’ll need your date of birth, National Insurance number and a handwritten signature (photo or scan)

• If you can’t apply online, a paper form will be sent later this year

Residents should look out for emails from elections.at.south.norfolk.and.broadland@notifications.service.gov.uk or expect a letter if no email address is held.

Anyone who does not reapply by the deadline will have their postal vote cancelled. They will still be able to vote in person but must bring an accepted form of photo ID.

More details are available at: https://www.southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/council/elections/postal-vote-re-applications-2025-2026