Can I ask somebody else to vote for me?
If you may not be able to get to your polling station and would prefer not to have a postal vote, you can appoint somebody else to vote on your behalf.
You must complete a proxy application form and you must state why you want to vote by proxy, for example, for medical or work reasons.
Voting by proxy can also be useful if you are abroad during an election or you live overseas in a country too far away to send back a postal vote in time for an election.
Can I apply to vote by proxy?
If you are registered to vote you can apply for a proxy vote for the following reasons:
- 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 are unable to attend your polling station
- Your employment means that you are unable to go to your polling station
- Your attendance on an educational course means you are unable to attend your polling station
- You are a British citizen living overseas
- You are a crown servant or a member of the armed forces
- You are registered as an anonymous voter
When can I apply to vote by proxy?
You can apply up to 6 working days before an election. If you fall ill or are injured less than 6 working days before an election you can appoint a proxy on emergency medical grounds. You must ask a doctor or other qualified person to sign your form. |Please contact Electoral Services for details.
Who can vote on my behalf?
Anyone can be your proxy as long as they are eligible to vote in that type of 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.
Can my proxy vote by post?
Your proxy must vote at your polling station, but they can apply to vote by post if it is more convenient. They must do so at least 11 working days before an election.
Can I vote instead of my proxy?
If you are able to attend your polling station on election day, you can vote there as long as you do so before your proxy has voted on your behalf. You will not be able to vote at the polling station if your proxy has applied to vote by post.
Can I apply to vote by proxy permanently?
You can appoint a proxy for a particular election or permanently. If you appoint a temporary proxy for a particular election you must state why you want a proxy vote but do not need anybody to support your application.
If you appoint a permanent proxy you must ask a doctor, nurse, carer, employer or other qualified person to support your application to confirm that the reason you are applying is valid. The form below tells you who can support your application. If you are registered blind or receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of the disability living allowance you do not need anyone to support your application.
Where can I send my form?
Once you have completed and signed the form, please send it back to |Electoral Services
