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Contact:media@hopenothate.org.uk// 0207 952 1183 

Photo ID causes disillusionment and confusion 
 

Anti-extremism campaign group, HOPE not hate reacts to the introduction of photo ID for the first time at the local elections.
 

Ahead of the election, HOPE not hate found that 23.8% of people, approximately 10 million people, weren't aware of the new rules and warned of the negative impact this would have on the individuals without ID and their faith in our democracy.
 

Georgie Laming, Director of Campaigns at HOPE not hate said:

"The alarm was raised before the local elections about the impact photo ID would have, and it's disappointing that the Electoral Commission has said they will be creating an action plan to address the issues they were forewarned about.

For those without access to photo ID, these rules have caused confusion and disillusionment in our democracy which must urgently be addressed before the next election."

Notes to editors:  

• HOPE not hate is the UK's leading anti-fascist campaign group which monitors and tackles the far-right.  
• HOPE not hate conducted anMRP poll about the awareness of photo IDahead of the local elections which found that a quarter of people weren't aware of the new laws, which can beviewed by constituency.
• Spokespeople from HOPE not hate are available for further comments and broadcast interviews.  

Contact:  

hopenothate.org.uk|@hopenothate|media@hopenothate.org.uk| 0207 952 1183 

HOPE not hate uses research, education and public engagement to challenge mistrust and racism, and helps to build communities that are inclusive, celebrate shared identities and are resilient to hate.