Voting

You can only vote in elections if your name is on the Register of Electors, which is prepared by the Electoral Registration Officer at the appropriate district council.

The following people are allowed to vote:

  • If you are 18 years or over.
  • All British, Commonwealth, Irish and other European Union citizens.
  • Overseas electors
  • Members of HM Forces and their spouses
  • Crown servants employed outside the United Kingdom
  • European citizens are allowed to vote in European and Local Elections only.
  • Overseas Electors are allowed to vote in Parliamentary and European Elections only.     

Poll cards are delivered shortly before an Election. Each member of the household who is eligible to vote should receive a poll card which informs them of the date of the election, where their polling station is and the hours of poll. You do not need to take the poll card with you to be able to vote. 

  • For Local Elections the hours of poll are 8.00am to 9.00pm
  • For Parliamentary and European Elections the hours of poll are 7.00am to 10.00pm
  • For General Elections the hours of poll are 7.00am to 10.00pm
  • On arrival at your designated polling station, the Presiding Officer will ask you to confirm your name and address and will issue you with a ballot paper.
  • The ballot paper will be marked with an official stamp.
  • You should take the ballot paper to the voting booth and mark with a "X" the candidate you wish to vote for.
  • Fold the ballot paper and deposit it in the ballot box.     

What if I am unable to get to the polling station on election day?

If you are unable to go to your Polling Station on Election Day, you can apply to vote by post or proxy (a proxy is someone who votes on your behalf). 

  • If you have a permanent physical incapacity, are registered blind or receive the higher rate of mobility component of the disability living allowance for a physical disability you are eligible for a permanent postal or proxy vote. The form requires the declaration that the information is correct from a doctor, nurse or warden of a home.
  • If your work frequently takes you overseas
  • If you will be on holiday when the election is taking place
  • If you have moved house since you registered and are unable to go to your old polling station.
  • If you are working during all hours of voting, for example as a member of the election staff.     

Please contact the Electoral Registration Officer who will advise which form you need to complete.

Postal vote

You are welcome to apply for a postal vote if you are unable to go to your Polling Station on election day. 

The deadline for receipt of postal vote applications is six days before the day of an election. 

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