If you are unable to get to the polling station on Election Day you can apply for a postal or proxy vote.
What is a Postal Vote?
To vote by post means that your ballot paper(s) for an election would be sent to your home address or an address where you
will be staying during an election. Postal Votes are sent out around 3-10 days before polling day and must be returned to the Returning Officer at the Council by polling day or handed, sealed, to the Polling Station staff on polling day to be counted.
How do I complete a Postal Vote I recieve?
Your postal voting pack will contain instructions on how to complete your ballot paper(s) and will also require you to complete
and sign a Postal Vote Statement, which as of August 2008 you must include your Date of Birth. The signed Postal Voting Statement
must then be returned with your ballot paper(s) in the envelopes provided to the Council for your vote to be valid. These
are legal requirements for electoral security.
Who can have a Postal Vote?
Postal Voting is available to anyone, whatever their circumstances, and can be granted for definite or indefinite periods
or for just one election. If you ask for a postal vote for a particular election please note that will not be able to then vote in person at the polling
station at that same election. You can also apply for a postal proxy vote, where someone you appoint can vote on your behalf
by post.
How do I apply for a Postal Vote?
If you wish to apply for, change or cancel a postal vote you must contact the Electoral Registration Office in Elgin on 01343
541203.
What is a Proxy Vote?
You can apply for someone to vote for you, this person is called a 'proxy'. This is where you appoint someone you know and
trust to vote on your behalf. If you appoint a proxy to vote for you he/she must be willing to vote on your behalf and eligible
themselves to vote.
Who can have a Proxy Vote?
Proxy voting is available to people who cannot reasonably be expected to attend their polling station at elections because
of physical incapacity, employment away from home, or attendance at courses for example. Temporary Proxy Voting is also available
if a voter is away from home temporarily on the date of an election. A reason must be given why you cannot vote in person.
How will my proxy know when to vote?
Your proxy will receive a proxy letter from the Electoral Registration Officer before election day, enabling him/her to vote
at the designated polling station by showing the letter. A postal proxy vote is also available allowing your proxy to vote
by post on your behalf, if they can't get to the Polling Station.
How do I apply for a Postal Vote?
If you wish to apply for, change or cancel your proxy vote you must contact the Electoral Registration Office in Elgin on 01343 541203.