Guidance for Candidates and Agents at local government elections in England

The Returning Officer (RO) will declare elected the candidate (or candidates in the case of multi-seat vacancy) with the most votes.

For more information about the allocation of seats see our guidance on the allocation of seats where a scheduled election is combined with a by-election in the same ward.

The RO will give public notice of the result.

The RO will publish a notice with the name of each candidate elected, the number of votes for all candidates, and the number of rejected ballot papers.

Some ROs allow candidates to make speeches after the result is declared. Please check arrangements with your RO. You should ensure that you and your supporters comply with any instructions given by the RO regarding the standards of behaviour required during verbal announcements.

What happens to the paperwork after the results is announced?

The RO must seal all election documentation, add a description of the contests to each packet and forward them on to the Electoral Registration Officer.

For more information on what happens after the declaration of the result, see our guidance on after the election.