Local Government Elections 2022 – Notice of Election and Polling Cards

The lead up to the 2022 Local Government elections picks up pace this week with the publication of a Notice of Election and the arrival of polling cards on doormats.

The Notice of Election for the election has been published today (Monday 14 March) and polling cards will begin to arrive later this week.

Publication of the Notice of Election signals the start of the election process, with prospective candidates having until March 30 at 4pm to submit their nomination papers.

Lodging of nomination papers can be made Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm at the Council Offices. Appointments for informal checks can be made by contacting the Election Team on 01856 886350 or by emailing electionoffice@orkney.gov.uk

For more information on standing for election - including a comprehensive 'So You Want to be a Councillor' booklet - visit www.orkney.gov.uk/LGE22.

Nomination papers can be downloaded at the same link or obtained from the Election Team at the Council offices at the same times as above.

When nomination papers are lodged, they will be checked for accuracy to ensure that they conform to statutory requirements. Occasionally, nomination papers cannot be accepted and new or amended papers are required to meet statutory requirements although the Election Team are there to assist with any corrections.

It is, however, in the interest of candidates when submitting their nominations to take this into account and ensure they have given themselves sufficient time in case any amendments are required.

People aged 16 or over, on 5 May, can vote in the election. If you are not already registered to vote you should to this by Monday 18 April. You can do this online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Alternatively, phone our local Electoral Registration Office on 01856 876222 or email ero@orkney.gov.uk to request an application form.

John Mundell is Orkney Islands Council's Returning Officer. He said: "Our activities touch the lives of everyone living in our island community, from schools to the care of the elderly, from rubbish collection to maintaining the county’s roads and from environmental health to handling planning applications. Orkney Islands Council has an impact on many aspects of everyday life - and standing as an elected members gives you an opportunity to play your role in that.

"With electors returning to the polls on 5 May 2022, Orkney voters have a fresh opportunity to vote for the people who demonstrate a real understanding of the needs of their local community – but they can only vote for you if you stand as a candidate.

"Our Local Government elections here in Orkney are traditionally a lively, well contested affair and rightly so – and as a Council we’re committed to ensuring folks from all walks of life can throw their hat in the ring.

"Our elections team can advise you on how to go through the process of standing for elections including the deadlines, guidelines and election law you need to meet - please do not hesitate to contact them."