Martin Ford 05 February 2021

Government confirms May election date

Government confirms May election date image

The Government has officially confirmed local elections will go ahead on May 6.

A delivery plan has been published detailing guidance for the polls under COVID-19 restrictions.

Councils have been told they will receive £15m to help with COVID-related pressures.

Requirements will include asking voters to bring pens and pencils, and to wear masks at polling stations. Voters will also be able to appoint a COVID proxy to vote on their behalf up to 5pm on polling day.

Cabinet Office minister Chloe Smith said: ‘Democracy should not be cancelled because of COVID.

‘More than ever, local people need their say as we build back better, on issues ranging from local roads, to safer streets, to the level of council tax.’

Cllr James Jamieson, chairman of the Local Government Association, said: 'It is good that the Government has set out this action plan to help guide local planning for these elections. We are pleased the Government will provide some extra funding to councils to ensure COVID-19 secure measures can be implemented for voters, council election teams and the army of volunteers in polling stations and count venues.

'The scale and cost of these vital extra measures to ensure everyone’s safe involvement in the elections and the counting of votes are now being assessed by councils. The level of extra government financial support will need to be kept under review as the real-world costs and implications are calculated.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Residential Assistant

Essex County Council
£25081.00 - £25395.00 per annum
Residential AssistantPermanent, Full Time£25,081 up to £25,395 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior Planning Officer

Durham County Council
Grade 11 £39,513 to £43,693 Grade 12 £42,708 to £46,731 per annum (Pay Award Pending)
Durham County Council is looking for experienced and knowledgeable Senior Planning Officers to join our vibrant Development Management team. Our team Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Head of Service – Social Care

Wrexham County Borough Council
G15 £63,148 - £67,058 per annum
There is an exciting opportunity within Children Social Care to join the senior management team Wrexham (Wrecsam)
Recuriter: Wrexham County Borough Council

Head of Service Social Work & Specialist Support

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
Grade M scp 60 £72,118 - scp 64 £77,293
There couldn’t be a more exciting time to join us. Blackburn, Lancashire
Recuriter: Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council

Cafe Assistant - Weald Country Park

Essex County Council
Up to £13.3000 per hour
Café Assistant (Weald Country Park)Contract
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner