Eligibility criteria
If you wish to be a candidate at an election, there are certain qualifications you must meet and disqualifications you must not meet. The qualifications and disqualifications differ depending on the type of election.
It is up to the candidate to determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria. If there is any doubt, prospective candidates are advised to seek their own legal advice.
Political parties are responsible for selecting who will stand as their candidates at an election. If you are interested in standing for election for a particular political party, you will need to contact their local office direct.
As well as meeting the eligibility criteria, you will need to complete a set of forms. Submit them by hand to the returning officer. This needs to be within a certain time period once an election has been called. This is the nomination period.
The forms you need to complete are -
- nomination form
- consent to nomination form
- home address form
If you are standing on behalf of a registered political party, you will need to submit a certificate. It authorises you to use the party's name or one of their registered descriptions. If you want one of the party’s registered emblems to appear on the ballot paper, submit a written request to use it.
The Electoral Commission produces a range of guidance for candidates and agents for each different type of election.
They also provide links to copies of the specific nomination forms and other useful documents.
Briefings for candidates and agents will be scheduled in the run-up to an election.
If you want to attend or need more information, contact electoral services via email electoral.services@hullcc.gov.uk.