On the 2nd May 2024, voters in England and Wales will head to the polls in a major set of mayoral and local elections. There will be elections for 10 Metro Mayors, 39 police and crime commissioners and several thousand local councillors.
Our co-founder at Crip Life™ – Joanna Baker-Rogers – is a Councillor for Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council. First elected in 2021, Joanna is hoping, once again, to secure her seat on the council. Here, she explains why she decided to nominate herself for election and describes what she loves so much about the role.
The benefits of being a local councillor
I had lived in Rotherham for over 20 years by the time I was elected. I stood because I love where I live and wanted to improve it for everyone who lives, works, and visits our town. In addition, I am told I am a good advocate and want to use my skills to help residents and champion local issues.
What I love about my role is the variety. One day, I can be chairing a meeting at the Townhall and the following day helping residents fill a skip in my ward. Then there is the casework I raise for residents. This maybe to be rehoused, address antisocial behaviour, or have roads repaired. I have also sat on several working groups that have developed strategies to address issues such as the recruitment of foster carers and waste management.
For me, the highlights have been presenting certificates to children who have completed our summer reading challenge, organising children’s activity days in our local country park, and seeing quality council homes built in my ward. These are all initiatives that I am very proud to have been involved with.
No day or week is the same! I have met some amazing people who have volunteered for charities or in their local communities for years. All have made a real difference to the lives of many people. With my Councillor Leadership Fund, I have been able to make some small contributions to local groups that have enabled them to continue to provide much-needed services to residents.
Becoming a councillor with a disability
Having a disability was something I was a little nervous about when I was first elected. There was no need to be as I have had understanding and support from fellow councillors and officers. I am known for asking questions and adding recommendations to agenda items in committee meetings.
All-in-all, I feel I have found my niche. I am hoping I am re-elected in May, so I can continue in my role as a councillor for the town that I love.
If you are interested in being a councillor, you can either contact your local council or the Local Government Association. There is lots of support available, and for me, having a disability has not presented any additional barriers to being a councillor.
Voting in the UK local elections
You need to be registered to vote by 11:59pm on 16th April 2024 to vote in the local elections on 2nd May 2024.
There are three ways you can vote – in person, by post or by proxy (by applying to have someone else vote for you).
You need to show photo ID when voting in person in the local elections. Types of ID that will be accepted include driving license, passport, Blue Badge, older person’s bus pass, disabled person’s bus pass and Disabled Person’s Welsh Concessionary Travel Card.
You must apply for a postal vote if you want to vote by post. You’ll need to apply by 5pm on 17th April 2024 to get a postal vote for the 2nd May 2024 local elections.
If you’re unable to vote in person you can ask someone to vote on your behalf. This is called a proxy vote. You’ll need to apply for a proxy vote by 5pm on 24th April 2024 to vote by proxy in the 2nd May 2024 elections.
You can also apply for an emergency proxy vote if you are suddenly unable to vote in person due to employment, medical emergencies or you don’t have the correct photo ID. You have until 5pm on 2nd May 2024 to apply for an emergency proxy vote.
For more details on how to vote, go to the UK government website.
