Residents across Sandwell are preparing for a significant shift in local governance as the borough moves toward an all-out election on Thursday, 7 May. Unlike staggered election cycles, this year features a total reset of the local authority following comprehensive changes to ward boundaries.
Every one of the 72 seats on Sandwell Council is contested. Under the new structure, the borough is divided into 24 wards, with each area represented by three councillors. This means every eligible elector has the opportunity to cast up to three votes on their ballot paper.
📌 Key Highlights
* Total Seats: All 72 council positions are up for election simultaneously.
* Voting Power: Residents can select up to three candidates in their specific ward.
* ID Requirement: Valid photo identification is mandatory to receive a ballot.
* Polling Hours: Stations remain open from 7:00 am until 10:00 pm.
Mandatory Photo ID and Accepted Documents
Strict voter identification rules remain in effect for the 2026 local elections. Polling station staff are required to verify a photo ID before issuing any ballot papers. While many forms of identification are accepted, residents are urged to check their wallets well in advance of Thursday.
| Election Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Election Date | Thursday, 7 May |
| Total Council Seats | 72 |
| Wards in Sandwell | 24 |
| Votes per Resident | Up to 3 |
| Polling Hours | 07:00 – 22:00 |
| Proxy Deadline | 17:00 on Election Day |
Accepted documents include UK-issued passports, driving licences (including provisionals), Blue Badges, and certain concessionary travel passes such as the Older Person’s Bus Pass or Disabled Person’s Bus Pass. It is important to note that young person’s bus passes and standard bank cards are not valid for voting purposes. Expired ID is still permissible, provided the photograph remains a true likeness of the voter.
Privacy Measures and Emergency Voting Options
Returning Officer Shokat Lal has confirmed that polling stations will be equipped to handle ID checks with discretion. “Staff at the polling station will check your ID before giving out a ballot paper,” Lal stated. “A private area will be available for anyone who would prefer their photo ID be viewed in private. Anyone wearing a face covering can ask to have their ID checked privately without needing to provide a reason.”
If a voter loses their identification or their Voter Authority Certificate fails to arrive in time, emergency measures are available. Residents can appoint an emergency proxy to vote on their behalf until 5:00 pm on election day. The designated proxy must possess their own valid photo ID to cast the vote.
Niki Nixon, Director of Communications at the Electoral Commission, emphasized the need for preparation. “Without the right ID, you won’t be able to vote at the polling station. Check your bags and wallets to make sure you have one ready before you head out.”
Those who have opted for postal votes but missed the mail deadline can hand in their completed packs at any polling station within the borough before 10:00 pm, subject to new regulations regarding the manual handover of postal ballots.
Source: Sandwell Council
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