Southend-on-Sea City Council is reminding residents that support is available for voters with disabilities ahead of the local elections taking place on Thursday 7 May 2026. With the city preparing to elect one councillor for each of the seats up for election across its 17 wards, the local authority is working to ensure that every resident is able to participate in the democratic process.
To help residents prepare for polling day, the council has partnered with Project 49, a service run by Southend Care Ltd that provides day opportunities for adults with learning disabilities. As part of the national Promote the Vote movement, this collaboration has provided practical sessions for residents, including mock elections and hustings to demonstrate what voters can expect at polling stations. Furthermore, two individuals with learning disabilities will take active roles in the electoral process this year.
As part of these accessibility efforts, voters can now use voting passports. These documents can be taken to polling stations to help election staff understand what specific support or reasonable adjustments may be helpful for an individual to cast their vote independently. The council has also confirmed that all voters must bring an accepted form of photo identification with them when they arrive to vote.
Colin Ansell, the Returning Officer and Chief Executive of Southend-on-Sea City Council, emphasised the importance of these arrangements. He stated that the council’s priority as polling day approaches is to ensure that all voters have clear information about polling arrangements and the help available at stations.
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