Proxy Votes

What is a proxy vote?

• With a proxy vote, you nominate somebody to vote on your behalf
• This option is open to every registered voter who would rather not, or cannot, visit a polling station
• The elector has to state on the application form the reason why they would like somebody to vote on their behalf
• Anyone is able to request one for a specific election or on a longer term basis. The latter requires certification by an appropriate person

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Who is this service for?

Anyone who is on the register of electors can apply for a proxy vote at any election, however, to vote in this way you must be on the register of electors prior to its publication before the election. This means you need to register to vote 11 working days before polling day.

You can check to see if you are on the register of electors by contacting the Electoral Services Office. If you are not then you can apply by filling out a register to vote form. Please see our 'Register to vote' page. You can now join the electoral register at any time (11 working days before polling day).

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How to apply for a proxy vote?

Complete the proxy voting application form. Each person requiring a proxy vote must fill in a form.

Proxy Vote Application Form

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Returning your form

The proxy voting form should be posted to the following freepost address. No stamp is required.

Electoral Services
FREEPOST (NAT 11762)
Bristol
BS1 5BR

or faxed to: (0117) 922 3461

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What happens after I have applied?

Provided there is enough time before the election (the current deadline is 6 working days before polling day) you will receive a confirmation that your application for a proxy vote has been received. The person you nominated to cast your vote on your behalf will also receive confirmation.

A proxy polling card is then sent to the person you nominated with details of how to vote.

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Proxies For Medical Emergencies

If an elector becomes physically incapacitated after the deadline for normal proxy vote applications has passed they can apply to appoint a medical emergency proxy up to 5 pm on polling day.  The application form also has to be certified by an appropriate person (e.g. a medical practioner or the person in charge of a residential home).

As little time will be available to process the application, anyone requiring this type of proxy vote should contact Electoral Services without delay.

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Contact Details

Electoral Services
The Exchange,
Corn Street Bristol
BS1 5TR

Telephone: (0117) 922 3790
Fax: (0117) 922 3461
E-mail: electoral.services@bristol.gov.uk

Office opening hours:
Monday to Thursday 9am to 4:30pm
Friday 9am to 4pm

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