I googled Sheffield election 2012, or similar, and had a look at what Lib Dem, and Green had to say for themselves. I read the Lib Dem and Labour leaflets that came through the door (didn't get any others). I also looked on the Unison website for a view about the Mayoral referendum. I'm afraid I didn't look at the tories or UKIPs site (closed minded I know, but they make me shudder a bit). There's a chap running on a 'no more cuts' ticket and I think there might be a website about that. Not sure.
It only took me 15 or 20 mins to do my research and decide. The power of the web eh. Me and my dog have now performed our democratic duties