How the elections work

A brief explanation of how the May 2022 local elections work

The image shows a group of campaigners gathered outside Redbridge Town Hall during the evening. They are holding signs with messages advocating for disability rights, such as "Save the Redbridge Mobility Scheme," "Don't close local life," and "No IFS No BUTS No DISABILITY CUTS." Among the campaigners, at least two individuals are using mobility scooters, emphasizing the focus on disability issues. One person is holding a sign that reads "Don't make me housebound," highlighting the personal impact of potential policy changes. The scene is one of community engagement and activism, with the participants united in their cause to protect and improve the rights and services for disabled people in Redbridge

Boroughs are divided up into areas called wards. In each ward, residents can cast votes for as many council seats as contested. You can vote for candidates from one party, a mix of parties, or independent councillors who are not joined to any political party.

In 27 of the 32 boroughs, the council leader is usually decided by the political party group with the most council seats. In the other five boroughs: Croydon, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham, and Tower Hamlets, there is a directly elected Mayor. In these boroughs,  in addition to voting for their local wards Councillors, residents also vote directly for who leads the council.

If you’d like to find out about elections (and candidates) in your area, visit whocanivotefor.co.uk . Please note that in some areas candidates might not officially declare their candidacy until 6 April.

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