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Elections - Proxy Votes

How to vote – by proxy

If you are unable to vote in person, you can apply to vote by proxy (someone else voting on your behalf).  You can apply for vote by proxy for a particular election, for a set period of time or for all future elections.

You need to get the right application form in order to vote by proxy.  Please contact the electoral registration office and the appropriate form can be sent to you.

Proxy voting information

Can I apply for a proxy vote

You can apply for a proxy vote as long as you are on the electoral register.  When you apply for a proxy vote you have to provide a reason.  You can apply for a proxy vote if:

 

• You are unable to go to the polling station for one particular election, for example, if you are away on holiday
•  You have a physical condition that means you cannot go to the polling station on election day
• Your employment means that you cannot go to the polling station on election day
• Your attendance on an educational course means that you cannot go to the polling station on election day
• You are a British citizen living overseas
• You are a crown servant or a member of Her Majesty's Armed Forces

Except if you are registered blind, you may have to get someone to support your application to confirm that your reason for applying to vote by proxy is valid. Read the notes that accompany the application form to find out if you need to get someone to support your application and who can do it.

When can I apply to vote by proxy?

The deadline for applying to vote by proxy is normally 6 working days before an election. However, if you have a medical emergency 6 days before election day or after, you can apply to vote by emergency proxy if the emergency means that you cannot go to the polling station in person.

Who can vote on my behalf?

Anyone can be your proxy as long as they are eligible to vote in the election and they are willing to vote on your behalf.
You cannot be a proxy for more than two people at any one election, unless they are a close relative.