Proxy votes
Can I nominate someone else to vote for me?
Yes, this is called a ‘proxy vote’. You can nominate a person, known as the ‘proxy’, to vote on your behalf at your local polling station or by post.
Download an Application to Vote by Proxy form or contact us. The form will ask you to state why you cannot vote in person. We require this reason by law.
To qualify for a proxy vote the proxy and the elector must be successfully registered under Individual Electoral Registration. If you need further information contact us before submitting an application.
What’s the last date to apply for a proxy vote before an election?
It’s 5.00pm, six working days before the election day. But we strongly advise you to fill in and return your Application to Vote by Proxy form as early as possible.
What if I have a medical emergency or I am called away for work reasons before the election day and can’t vote?
If this happens, you might be able to apply for an ‘emergency proxy vote’.
Download an application form to vote by Application to vote by Proxy (Emergency) or contact us. We must receive your application no later than 5.00pm on the election day. For medical emergency applications this must be supported and signed by a registered medical practitioner, a registered nurse or Christian science practitioner. If you are in a residential home or sheltered housing, the matron, home care director or warden can support your application.
For emergency proxies for work reasons this must be attested by your employer. Contact us for further information.
Who can vote on my behalf?
Anyone can be your ‘proxy’ as long as they qualify to vote in UK elections and are willing to vote on your behalf.
A person cannot be a proxy for more than two people at any one election - unless they are a ‘close relative’ - the law defines this as husband/wife, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, son or daughter or grandson/daughter.
Contact us if you want us to confirm that someone can qualify to be your proxy.
Any questions?
If you have a question or comment regarding elections and voting please complete the Elections and voting form.