How Do I Vote?
Poll Cards
If you are on the Register, you should receive a poll card before the election date. Your poll card tells you when to vote, and where (usually a local school or community hall). It also tells you what to do once you are inside the polling station.
This card is for information only. Don't worry if you lose it or forget it - you can still vote without it.
Voting at a Polling Station
At the polling station, tell the clerk your name and address. The presiding officer will give you a ballot paper; see that it is stamped with the official mark before it is given to you.
Go to one of the polling booths, (in many stations there are booths suitable for people with disabilities), and mark a cross (X) in the box on the right hand side of the ballot paper opposite the name(s) of the candidate(s) you are voting for. The ballot paper tells you how many candidates you may vote for. Do not vote for more than that number. Put no other mark on the ballot paper, or your vote may not be counted. (If by mistake you spoil a ballot paper, show it to the presiding officer and ask for another one).
Fold the ballot paper in two. Show the official mark to the presiding officer, but do not let anyone see your vote. Put the ballot paper in the ballot box and leave the polling station.
Postal and Proxy Voting
If you have been granted a postal vote, you will not be entitled to vote in person. If you would like to vote by post you can request an application form from the Elections Office.
If you have appointed a proxy to vote in person for you, you may nevertheless vote at an election if you do so before your proxy has voted on your behalf.
If you would like to appoint someone to vote on your behalf you must complete an application form. There are a number of different types of proxy applications forms available by clicking on the Electoral Commissionlink on the right hand menu please select the one that suits your circumstances best and return it to the Electoral Registration Officer at Lancaster City Council.