Election process and key dates

The Election Process

Step 1: Decide How You Want to Stand

Before standing for election, you will need to decide whether you want to:

• Stand as a candidate for a political party
• Stand as an independent candidate
• Stand for election to the District Council, your local Parish Council, or both (where eligible)

If you wish to stand for a political party, you should contact the party as early as possible, as candidate selection processes often begin many months before an election.

Step 2: Check You Are Eligible

Candidates must meet the legal qualification criteria and must not be disqualified from standing for election.

Full details of eligibility requirements will be available from the Electoral Commission and Blaby District Council's Electoral Services team.

Step 3: Complete Nomination Papers

Anyone wishing to stand for election must submit nomination papers by the published deadline.

You will normally need to:

• Complete the required nomination forms
• Obtain the signatures of eligible electors from the ward or parish you wish to represent
• Nomination papers must be submitted no later than 4pm on Thursday 8 April 2027

Electoral Services can provide guidance and offer an informal check of nomination papers before these are formally submitted.

Step 4: Campaigning

Once your nomination has been accepted, you can begin campaigning and speaking to local residents about the issues that matter to your community.

Campaigning can include:

• Speaking to residents
• Delivering leaflets
• Using social media
• Attending community events
• Sharing your priorities and vision for the area

Step 5: Polling Day

Polling stations will be open on Thursday 6 May 2027. Residents who are registered to vote will be able to cast their vote in person, by post or by proxy if they have made the necessary arrangements.

Step 6: Election Results

Votes will be counted after polling closes and successful candidates will be formally elected to serve their communities.

Key dates