Members of the public have been encouraged to register for a postal vote to avoid “losing their right to vote” due to requirements for photo ID.

In a first for elections in Brighton and Hove, people going to their local polling station on May 4 will be required to show a form of photo ID in order to cast their vote.

Accepted forms of ID include a passport, driving license, a Blue Badge, a Pass card or an Older Person’s Bus Pass.

However, campaigners have raised concerns that some voters unaware of the change or without suitable ID will be turned away from voting.

Some candidates and activists have encouraged people to sign up for a postal vote to avoid the new requirement.

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A spokeswoman for the Green Party described the new requirements as “undemocratic change” and that the party’s candidates and campaigners have been informing voters of the change and providing information on postal voting to “prevent anyone losing their right to vote”.

She said: “It is an expensive and unnecessary hurdle which will do nothing to solve a problem that doesn’t exist - the Electoral Commission reports that the UK has low levels of proven electoral fraud.

“Instead it risks taking away the voice of millions of voters who have a right to be heard in determining their future and has a disproportionate impact on disadvantaged communities, communities of colour and younger people.

“Here in Brighton and Hove, the council has implemented measures to inform voters across the city of the new requirement. While this is an uphill battle, we are optimistic that our efforts will go at least some way to mitigate the negative impact of the Conservatives’ attempt to disenfranchise residents.”

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A spokesman for Labour said: “The Prime Minister is dangerously seeking to undermine trust and confidence in democratic elections. The Tories’ voter ID policy is expensive and unnecessary.

“If voters don’t want to have to worry about the government’s photo ID requirements, the easiest thing to do is sign up for a postal vote.”

Those without a suitable form of ID who want to vote in person can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate from the government’s website. Applications should be completed by 5pm on April 25 in order to get one by May 4.

A council spokesman said that anyone attending a polling station without the correct form of ID will not be allowed to vote until they can show it.

He said: “Voter ID is a major change to the way people will be able to vote, so we urge everyone eligible to vote to ensure they have the correct form of picture photo identification or sign up for a Voter Authority Certificate or apply for a postal vote.”

The deadline for new postal applications is 5pm tomorrow. Voters who wish to vote by post can download an application form from the council’s website and send it to electors@brighton-hove.gov.uk.

Those requiring help completing the form can contact the council on 01273 291999.