People wanting to vote in the local elections in Dudley borough can get face-to-face help and support with their photo ID

Anyone wanting to vote at a polling station On May 4 now needs photo ID under new national rules.

If people do not have one of the approved forms of photo ID such as a passport or driving licence they can apply for a free voter authority certificate which works in the same way.

Dudley Council is offering a free drop-in service where people can get their photos taken and support filling in the form. They will then receive their voter authority certificate in the post which they can use to vote at a polling station.

People can visit Dudley Council Plus in Castle Street, Dudley, 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday. Kevin O’Keefe, chief executive and electoral returning officer at Dudley Council, said: 

“I’d encourage people to make sure they have everything they need if they want to vote on May 4. We’re here to help people if they do not have one of the approved forms of voter ID.

“The process is quick and easy and we have staff to guide people through that. There’s also lots of information on our website.”

The deadline for applying for a voter authority certificate is April 25. People can also apply online.