The future of Durham County is being decided now, and it's crucial for every voice to be heard, especially students. As a student, your vote can shape local decisions on education, housing, community services, and many other issues that directly impact your daily life.

Why should I vote?

Students account for a significant portion of the voter base, so can really make an impact! Parish and county councils are vital for making changes locally so it’s important that you vote.

Some of the key areas where the parish or county council can make an impact on the student experience are: Housing, Student Workers and Night Economy, Antisocial Behaviour, Local Services.

What are these elections for?

County Council Elections: Residents will be voting to elect County Councillors for the 51 electoral divisions in County Durham. These councillors represent local communities and make decisions on key services like education, transport, and social care.

Parish Council Elections: Residents will also be voting to elect parish councillors in 197 Parish areas across County Durham. Parish councillors represent communities at the grassroots level, managing local amenities and supporting community events.

Who can vote in these elections?

To vote in the Durham Council Elections, you must:

• Be registered to vote
• Be 18 or over on election day (1 May 2025)
• Be registered at an address in the Durham County Council area
• Not be legally excluded from voting

Additionally, you must be one of the following:

• A British citizen
• An Irish citizen
• A Commonwealth citizen who has permission to enter or stay in the UK (or does not need permission)
• A citizen of Denmark, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal or Spain
• A citizen of another EU country, if you have had permission to enter or stay (or not needed permission) since 31 December 2020, and this has continued without a break.

International students: Many of you are eligible to vote! Check your eligibility and register before the deadline.

How to get ready to vote

1.Register to vote

Deadline: Friday 11 April 2025

Check your voter registration status to avoid any surprises on the day. Register at durham.gov.uk/registertovote

2. Consider your voting method

In person: Vote at your designated polling station on 1 May (7:00am-10:00pm)

By post: Apply by 5:00pm, Tuesday 14 April 2025

By proxy (someone voting on your behalf): Apply by 5:00pm Wednesday 23 April 2025

3. Make sure you have acceptable ID

You will need a photographic ID (your student ID won't count!). This can be a passport, driving license, or other approved ID.

Need ID? Apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate by 5:00pm on 23 April 2025 by applying online here: https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate

4. Find your polling station

Polling stations are open from 7:00am to 10:00pm on Thursday 1 May 2025. Find your designated polling station at durham.gov.uk/pollingstations

5. Research candidates and issues

Get informed! Research the candidates you can vote for, focusing on issues affecting students. Check out the candidates in your area: whocanivotefor.co.uk

6. Make your voice count

Be sure to turn up and vote on the issues that matter to you. Students have the power to shape local decisions, so don't miss your opportunity to use your voice. Remember to encourage your friends and fellow students to do the same!

Key Dates

For more information, visit durham.gov.uk/elections2025

Event	Deadline
Register to vote	Friday 11 April 2025
Apply to vote by post	By 5:00pm, Tuesday 14 April 2025
Apply to vote by proxy	By 5:00pm Wednesday 23 April 2025
Apply for free Voter Authority Certificate	By 5:00pm Wednesday 23 April 2025
Apply to get a lost/spoilt postal vote replaced	From Friday 25 April 2025 to 5:00pm on Thursday 1 May 2025
Polling day	Thursday 1 May 2025 from 7:00am to 10:00pm
Deadline for emergency proxy applications	By 5:00pm on Polling Day, Thursday 1 May 2025