There are different types of elections and referendums. The most common ones are:
- General elections (elections to the UK Parliament)
- Local and Parish Council elections
- Referendums (which is a vote on a single issue)
- By-elections
Whether you can vote in an election or referendum will depend on:
- your age
- your nationality
- where you live
- whether you’ve registered to vote
Dates of elections
| Type of election | Last election | Next scheduled election |
| Local and Parish Council elections (excluding Bournemouth, Broadstone and Poole Town Council elections) | 4 May 2023 | 6 May 2027 |
| Bournemouth, Broadstone and Poole Town Council elections | 7 May 2026 | 1 May 2031 |
| General elections (elections to the UK Parliament) | 4 July 2024 | By 15 August 2029 |
Last updated on 20 May 2026.