How To Get Your Vote Counted

Get your voice heard in a general election. Here’s all you need to know about how to vote!

What do I do if I’ve moved house?

If you’ve moved house you should update your details so you can vote at your nearest polling station. If you are a student you can ask to register at both your term time address and your home address if this would be easier. 

What do I do if I’ll be on holiday or living abroad on voting day?

You can apply for a postal vote or a proxy vote in order to be able to vote whilst you are away.

What is a proxy vote?

A proxy vote is when someone votes on your behalf. You must be a registered voter to apply for a proxy vote, and the person you wish to vote on your behalf must also be registered to vote.

To apply for a proxy vote you must have a reason for which you cannot vote. This may include:

  • 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

If something happens (you are in hospital for example) you can still apply for a proxy vote up to 5pm on voting day.

Here are the forms that allow you to apply for a proxy vote

What is a postal vote?

A postal vote allows you to complete your ballot paper and send it to your local authority ahead of polling day. It’s helpful if you can’t make it to your polling station on the day of the election. 

You can apply for a postal vote here.

Voting anonymously

You may be able to register anonymously if you can show that there’s a good reason, for example if you’re concerned about your safety.

Contact your local Electoral Registration Office to find out if you can register anonymously.

Click here to find out more answers to questions you might have around voting.

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