Standing as a candidate

If you want to stand in the local elections on Thursday 7 May 2026, you must complete and submit a valid nomination. You can read more about what the role involves on Be a Councillor.

Key election dates 2026

The main dates for candidates and agents are:

Some of the dates above are set in law, while others are part of the election timetable planned by the Returning Officer. Deadlines relating to nominations and spending returns are statutory.

Help with your nomination paper

The Returning Officer can carry out an informal check of your nomination paper before you formally submit it. This is strongly recommended, as it helps identify any issues before submission.

Please email the elections team at elections@haringey.gov.uk early to book an informal check and an appointment to submit your nomination papers.

You can download the required forms and read detailed instructions on the Electoral Commission’s nomination papers page.

Submitting your nomination

You can deliver your completed nomination papers at the following times:

• 9am to 5pm, Tuesday 24 March to Wednesday 8 April
• 9am to 4pm, Thursday 9 April 

Nomination papers must be submitted by hand to the Returning Officer, Electoral Services, First Floor, George Meehan House, 294 High Road, London N22 8YX. 

Please ensure your forms are complete and accurate before attending. 

Candidate security guidance

The Government has published advice on staying safe during the election period, including how to protect your personal information and how to report concerns. You can read this in their candidate security guidance collection.

More guidance on standing for election

The Electoral Commission provides step-by-step guidance covering:

• who can stand
• how to complete nomination papers
• spending rules and reporting
• the role of election agents
• what happens on polling day and at the count

Read the Electoral Commission’s guidance for candidates and agents.