Everyone should be able to register and cast their vote without facing barriers. We provide a range of accessibility tools and materials for anyone who needs support.
When there is an election or referendum, a list of all the candidates or questions will be provided here in a format that works best with audible readers and web-based reading technologies.
They can be listened to while using a tactile voting device at the polling station.
To help make polling stations accessible we provide:
- ramps where needed so polling stations are wheelchair accessible
- large print versions of ballot papers to view
- pencil grips to attach to pens or pencils when marking the ballot paper
- magnifiers to use when reading guidance or marking the ballot paper
- tactile voting device, to enable blind and partially sighted people to mark their ballot papers independently
- friendly and helpful polling station staff who will make reasonable adjustments where possible.
Our polling station staff will be available to help you so you can exercise your right to vote.
For example, if you need:
- someone to read out the candidates on the ballot paper
- to be shown a large print ballot paper
- to use the tactile voting device
- someone to help mark the ballot paper with your decision, either someone who has accompanied you or the polling station staff
- to be assisted in moving around the polling station.
A First Time Voter Form may help if you find voting difficult or confusing. The form contains information about what support you might need.
Download and complete the First Time Voters Form below. You must be registered to vote.
- First Time Voters Form (opens in new tab)pdf file[71KB]
Give the form to a member of staff when you arrive at the polling station. They will check your details against the electoral register and explain the voting process.
Polling station staff cannot vote for you or tell you who to vote for. They can explain how to mark your ballot paper so that your vote is counted.
When you have completed your ballot paper, staff can show you where to put it in the ballot box.
More information on accessibility at elections can be found on the Electoral Commission's website.
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