Information for candidates, agents and parish clerks – Local Elections 2023

Election Notices

Election notices are available to view on our Local Elections 2023 page and we will also forward them to parish clerks to publish locally.

Guide to standing as a parish councillor

For information about standing as a parish councillor, please visit the Electoral Commission’s page on Parish Council Elections.

You can also contact the relevant town/parish council or the Oxfordshire Association of Local Councils (OALC)

You can also view an example of a completed parish nomination pack.

Candidates’ spending

Defined as certain expenses ‘used for the purposes of the candidate’s election’ during the regulated period. This is the responsibility of the election agent.

Key dates

For district elections – returns are due 35 calendar days after result of election (9 June 2023)
For parish elections – returns are due 28 calendar days after result (2 June 2023)

Key information

The Limit on expenses:
- £806 + 7 pence per elector in ward on register in force on 1 March register
- reduced for joint candidates
You MUST get and keep receipts (over £20) (£10 for parish)
Candidates’ spending returns can be inspected by the public on request
A sample of returns may be reviewed by the Electoral Commission
Failure to submit a spending return is a criminal offence enforceable by police
No spending will be reimbursed
You MUST submit a return even if it is NIL
Parish candidates should submit even if elected uncontested

Candidates’ spending is regulated by the Electoral Commission and is laid out in the Candidates and Agents Guidance

Any enquiries should be referred to the Electoral Commission. Call 0333 103 1928 or email pef@electoralcommission.org.uk

Candidates’ spending limits by area

Spending returns – advice surgeries for candidates and agents

The Electoral Commission is hosting virtual advice surgeries for candidates and agents to ensure you have guidance and practical support needed with spending returns.

You can book a 15-minute appointment with an expert advisor to discuss specific issues relating to the spending and donation laws, and to ask any queries you might have.

Virtual appointments take place via Microsoft Teams and are available on first come, first served basis on the following dates: