Different ways you can vote

You must be registered to vote before you can vote in an election.

Register to vote

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Choose how to vote

You can vote:

• in person at a polling station
• by post
• by proxy, where someone votes on your behalf

Most people vote in person at their local polling station.

You must show an approved form of photo identification when voting at a polling station in Swindon.

Check which forms of photo identification you can use

If you cannot go to the polling station on election day, you can apply to vote by post or proxy.

Find out more about voting on the Electoral Commission website

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Vote by post

You can apply for a postal vote if you:

• are on the published electoral register
• have applied to join the register through the monthly update process

You can request a postal vote for:

• a specific election
• a set period
• up to three years

Apply online

The quickest and easiest way to apply is online.

Apply to vote by post

You will need to:

• provide your National Insurance number so your identity can be checked
• upload a photo of your handwritten signature

You cannot use a digital signature.

Apply using a paper form

If you cannot apply online:

1. Download the postal vote application form from GOV.UK
2. Complete the form and sign it in ink. We cannot accept digital signatures.
3. Scan the completed form or take a clear photo of it.
4. Email it to elecreg@swindon.gov.uk

You can also post the completed form to:

Electoral Services
Civic Offices
Euclid Street
Swindon
SN1 2JH

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Vote by proxy

A proxy vote allows someone you trust to vote on your behalf.

Your proxy will usually need to vote at your polling station. If they cannot go to the polling station, they can apply to vote by post. Application deadlines apply.

You can still vote in person if you arrive at the polling station before your proxy votes.

Apply to vote by proxy

If you need a paper form, you can:

• email elecreg@swindon.gov.uk
• call Electoral Services on 01793 464601

Who can be your proxy

The person you choose must:

• be aged 18 or over
• be registered to vote
• be eligible to vote in the election
• agree to vote on your behalf

One person can act as a proxy for up to four voters. No more than two of these can be UK-based voters.

Apply for an emergency proxy vote

You may be able to apply for an emergency proxy vote after the usual proxy deadline if:

• you become ill
• you are away because of work
• you lose your photo identification

You must apply by 5.00pm on polling day.

Choose the form that matches your circumstances:

• Emergency disability proxy vote application form (PDF)
• Emergency employment proxy vote application form (PDF)
• Emergency photo ID proxy vote application form (PDF)