Almost a quarter of local residents are unaware of new rules that will require voters to show photo ID in this week's local elections.
The local elections on Thursday (4th May) are the first where the controversial new rules will be in place.
A recent poll from campaign group Hope Not Hate says claims 23.5 per cent of people in the Bradford district are unaware of the new rules.
In response to the claim, Bradford Council has said it carried out a major awareness campaign in the run up to the vote.
The changes require voters to show photo ID, such as a driving licence or passport, when they arrive at the polling station.
People without such ID have been able to apply for a new form of voter ID.
Tap here to see the election pleas from parties standing in this week's ballots.
The Hope Not Hate figures show that nationally 25-34 year olds were the least likely age group to know about the new rules with 36 per cent saying they were unaware.
13.2 per cent of over 65s were unaware of the new rules.
Director of Campaigns, Georgie Laming said: “With that many people unaware of the rules, we need to see more promotion of the changes to make sure that everyone is able to use their vote during the local election. There’s a lot more to be done to educate the public about photo ID.”
Kersten England, Returning Officer for the Bradford District, said: “The Elections Act 2022 introduced the requirement to provide photo ID for the local elections in May.
“The Electoral Commission commenced a national public awareness campaign on January 9 and we also commenced an extensive campaign at the same time and which has been ongoing to make people aware about the change and how to apply for free voter ID if needed, including the following activity:
- The use of social media channels, email newsletters to almost 170,000 residents
- information sent to every household with Council Tax bills
- poll cards sent to 371,000 electors with information on the new voter ID requirements
- bus advertising, radio advertising, use of digital messaging boards across the city and at the bus and train stations
- provision of videos and information in a number of different languages
- issued posters to all polling stations, community centres, libraries and ward offices
- nine hubs district wide to provide support for people who needed help to apply for free photo ID.
“We have worked closely with our partners in health and education to spread the message across a variety of groups and care settings, including the visually impaired, hard of hearing and adults with learning difficulties. All channels available to us have been used to get this important message to our residents.”
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