Introducing our most accessible elections ever

Kensington and Chelsea residents voting within the Local Elections on Thursday 7 May will profit from a complete vary of measures designed to make this yr’s ballot probably the most accessible within the borough’s historical past.

The vary of assistive applied sciences and sensible help measures being made out there to voters at polling stations will be sure that no residents are excluded from taking part in democracy attributable to limitations past their management. The measures purpose to make sure that each voter, no matter bodily or sensory requirement, can forged their vote with confidence and independence.

How we’re eradicating limitations on the poll field

Polling stations all through the borough can be outfitted with a wide range of instruments to help voters, together with:

• Audio help: voters can scan a QR code on the polling sales space to entry audio recordings of candidates and events, offering important help for these with visible impairments or comprehension wants
• Tactile and visible assist: braille poll papers, magnifying glasses, and acetate sheets to enhance readability
• Ergonomic help: pen finger grips can be out there to help these with restricted dexterity
• Infrastructure enhancements: polling stations will characteristic extra seating and accessible polling cubicles to make sure consolation and privateness
• Staff help: polling station employees have been skilled to assist voters that want it.

This dietary supplements present measures equivalent to postal and proxy voting for many who can’t, or don’t wish to go to the polling station on elections day.

Committed to inclusivity

The accessibility measures tie into broader commitments to making sure that the democratic course of stays as open and welcoming as attainable. As a part of the Your Community Your Voice marketing campaign, the Council continues to try to make participating and taking part as straightforward as attainable for each resident.

Any resident with queries about accessability on the election, or any common questions, can electronic mail .

Maxine Holdsworth, Chief Executive of Kensington and Chelsea Council, mentioned: “The goal is that every voter’s physical or sensory requirements are met and they can cast their vote with confidence and independence. By providing these essential tools, we are removing barriers between residents and the ballot box and ensuring the voice of every eligible voter can be heard on Thursday 7 May.”

Jade Carter-Williams, Founder of the Ability to Thrive incapacity community, mentioned: “Our group has seen the election team working tirelessly to make these positive changes and ensure that the information is provided to residents in plenty of time to give them the confidence to attend a polling station and vote. These measures open doors for residents, enabling them to access this local election and cast their vote.”

Are you election prepared?

• Residents are reminded that polling stations can be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 7 May.
• You should carry a legitimate type of photograph ID to the polling station. Those with out an accepted type of ID can nonetheless apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate, although they’re inspired to take action as quickly as attainable earlier than the deadline.

For additional particulars on how one can register, apply for postal or proxy votes, and a full record of accepted identification, please go to the Council’s devoted Local Elections web page.