Election blog - Oxfordshire is deciding on 1 May
Don’t waste your vote – who’s elected can have a direct influence on your day-to-day life
On 1 May, Oxfordshire decides. Use your vote to decide who you want to represent you. Getting ready to vote is easier than you might think.
Make sure you're registered to vote.
If it's your first time voting or you've moved recently, you'll need to register by the deadline. For the upcoming local council elections in Oxfordshire, that's midnight on 11 April 2025. You can do it online, and it only takes a few minutes.
Double-check that you are registered to vote
Even if you think you're already registered, it's a good idea to check your status. You don't want any surprises on election day! If you’ve received a paper voting card through the door, you’re registered, and as long as the details are correct on the card, you’re good to go.
Take a look at your voting options.
In Oxfordshire, you can vote in person at your designated polling station, or you can apply for a postal vote if you can't make it in person.
Make sure you know where your polling station is and what hours it's open on election day. That information will also be on the polling card.
Don't forget to check what ID you need to bring with you.
Different types of ID might be required depending on whether you're voting in person or by post. Check what voter ID you need online.
Before election day, spend some time researching the candidates and the issues on the ballot.
Knowing who and what you're voting for will help you make informed decisions. Local media and social media provide a great source of information about the candidates.
Finally, make a plan for election day.
Decide when you'll go to vote and how you'll get there. If you're voting by post, make sure you send your ballot in before election date so it has time to be counted. It needs to be with the elections team at your local council by 10pm on 1 May to be counted.
Encourage your friends and family to vote too, and remind them how important it is to participate in the election.
Every vote counts, so take the time to get ready and help shape the future of your community.