As the United Kingdom gears up for the general election on July 4, 2024, voters in Shepton Mallet will need to familiarise themselves with significant changes to their electoral landscape, and the way they vote.

The Wells constituency, traditionally including Shepton Mallet, has undergone substantial boundary changes, affecting local representation.

Constituency Changes: The newly defined Wells and Mendip Hills constituency retains several of its core areas, including Axbridge, Cheddar, Shepton Mallet, and Wells itself. However, it will no longer include the coastal towns of Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge, which are now part of the new Bridgwater seat. Additionally, the constituency has expanded to incorporate Yatton and other areas previously within the Weston-super-Mare seat. This change brings new dynamics and a broader demographic mix into the constituency.

Local Candidates: The race for the Wells and Mendip Hills seat features a diverse group of candidates. Helen Hims is representing Reform UK, while Abi McGuire is standing as an independent candidate. The Liberal Democrats have nominated Tessa Munt, a familiar face in local politics, and Peter Welsh is contesting for the Green Party. The Conservative Party has yet to announce their candidate for this seat.

New Voter ID Requirements: A significant change for all voters in this election is the introduction of mandatory photo ID at polling stations, a measure introduced by the current government. To vote, individuals will need to present one of several forms of acceptable photo ID. This includes UK or Northern Ireland driving licences, UK or other specified passports, various national ID cards, Blue Badges, biometric residence permits, Defence Identity Cards, and more. Even expired IDs will be accepted, provided the photo is still a good likeness.

For those who do not possess any of the acceptable forms of ID, there is an option to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate via the UK Government website, which will require a national insurance number and a recent digital photo.

Proxy Voting: Voters who plan to vote by proxy should note that they will need to bring their own ID to the polling station; they do not need to present ID for the person they are representing.

These changes are crucial for ensuring that all eligible voters can participate in the election without issues, and residents of Shepton Mallet are encouraged to prepare accordingly.

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