If you want to vote in an election you can do this in
person at a polling station on the day, by post, or by choosing
someone else to vote on your behalf (by proxy).
Registering to vote
Before you can vote in an election, you need to make sure that
you are listed on the electoral register and be eligible to
vote.
Voting in person
Most people in North Somerset choose to cast their vote in
person at a local polling station during elections. Doing
this is very straightforward and you don’t need to take your
polling card with you. Just tell our staff your name and
address when you get there, take the ballot paper(s) that they give
you into a booth and cast your vote without making any other marks
on the paper, then fold the paper in half and put it in the ballot
box.
Polling stations are open from 7am-10pm and staff are on hand to
help you if you have a question.
Voting by post
You can apply for a postal vote so that you don’t have to visit
a polling station on the day. You don’t need to give a reason to
apply for one and they are usually sent out a week before an
election to your nominated address. They can be sent overseas but
you need to consider whether there will be enough time to receive
and return your ballot paper by election day.
When you receive your postal voting papers you will need to take
care of them and ensure they do not fall into someone else's
possession. If anyone tries to help you against your will, or
force you to give them your postal vote please contact the
police.
You can find out more information about postal votes and apply
for one online at
about my vote.
Voting by proxy
If you are unable to vote on election day you can nominate
another person to vote on your behalf, but the person you have
chosen must be eligible to vote in an election. Some
residents may not be able to vote for several reasons, including
ill-health or employment commitments, and you will need to provide
a reason when you apply for a proxy vote.
Voting security
A series of
measures are in place to ensure postal and proxy voting at
elections in North Somerset is secure.
For more information visit
about my vote or contact our
electoral
services team.
