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Information for candidates

If you would like to stand as a candidate in an election, there are different rules and criteria you need to meet depending on the type of election.

You can either:

  • be nominated by a political party
  • stand as an independent candidate.

You must:

  • be 18 years and over
  • meet the eligibility criteria for specific elections

If you are considering becoming a candidate in any election, the sections on this page will help you to find our more about the role, the criteria you must meet, how to withdraw and how to stand.

Ward election

Ward councillors represent an electoral ward and hold significant responsibility within their area. If you are elected this would allow you to:

  • tackle issues and influence public life in your local area
  • act as a voice for local people
  • work with council officers and committees to shape services
  • help allocate council funds
  • be responsible for services, such as:
    • education
    • social care
    • housing
    • transport and highways
  • hold the council to account.

As a candidate, you’ll be expected to campaign, which offers you the chance to:

  • meet and engage with voters
  • share your vision for the local area
  • address any concerns voters have.

If you would like to become a candidate in a ward council election you must meet the qualifying criteria provided by the relevant election legislation.

You can only apply to become a candidate once the Notice of Election is published for these elections. We will provide further information ahead of this. Next scheduled election.

If you have submitted a Nomination Form for an election but wish to withdraw, complete the Withdrawal form.

Town and parish council election

Town and parish councillors represent a smaller area than ward councillors, usually a village, town or small part of a larger community. If you are elected this would allow you to:

  • act as a voice for local people
  • get involved in local events and initiatives
  • fund local services by managing a small part of the council budget
  • be responsible for community services, such as:
    • allotments
    • community halls
    • local play areas and parks
    • some neighbourhood planning.

As a candidate, you’ll be expected to campaign, which offers you the chance to:

  • meet and engage with voters
  • share your vision for the local area
  • address any concerns voters have.

If you would like to become a candidate in a town and parish council election you must meet the qualifying criteria provided by the relevant election legislation.

You can only apply to become a candidate once the Notice of Election is published for these elections. We will provide further information ahead of this. Next scheduled election.

If you have submitted a Nomination Form for an election but wish to withdraw, complete the Withdrawal form.

Combined Authority Mayoral election

The role of a mayor is to:

  • provide leadership and make policy decisions
  • act as the public face for the area, engaging with communities and businesses
  • drive economic growth in the area
  • set long-term strategies for transport, housing and the economy
  • represent communities at a regional level.

Standing as a candidate in a mayoral election is a significant commitment but offers you a unique opportunity to lead and shape the future of a region.

If you would like to become a candidate in a Combined Authority Mayoral election you must meet the qualifying criteria provided by the relevant election legislation.

You can only apply to become a candidate once the Notice of Election is published for these elections. We will provide further information ahead of this. Next scheduled election.

If you have submitted a Nomination Form for an election but wish to withdraw, complete the Withdrawal form.

Parliamentary election

The role of a Member of Parliament (MP) requires significant commitment but allows you to:

  • act in the interest of your constituents
  • scruitinise and hold the government to account
  • propose, review and vote on legislation
  • contribute to national decision-making.

Standing as a candidate in a general election offers you the opportunity to:

  • meet your constituents and listen to their ideas
  • campaign to help explain what your plans and priorities are
  • shape the future of your community.

If you would like to become a candidate in a parliamentary (general) election you must meet the qualifying criteria provided by the UK Parliament. There are also a number of reasons that may disqualify you from applying to be a member of parliament (MP).

You can only apply to become a candidate once the Notice of Election is published for these elections. We will provide further information ahead of this. Next scheduled election.

If you have submitted a Nomination Form for an election but wish to withdraw, complete the Withdrawal form.

Police and crime commissioner election

Police and crime commissioners (PCCs) play a crucial role to:

  • shape local policing and set priorities
  • work with local communities to improve public safety
  • ensure accountability

Standing for election offers you the opportunity to influence policing and crime prevention in your area.

If you would like to become a candidate in a police and crime commissioner (PCC) election you must meet the qualifying criteria provided by the relevant election legislation There are also a number of reasons that may disqualify you from applying to be a candidate.

You can only apply to become a candidate once the Notice of Election is published for these elections. We will provide further information ahead of this. Next scheduled election.

If you have submitted a Nomination Form for an election but wish to withdraw, complete the Withdrawal form.

Contact details

Elections, Municipal Offices, Town Hall Square, Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, DN31 1HU

Elections team contact form

Telephone: 01472 324160

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