Proxy voting

What is a proxy vote?

• A proxy vote is when 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.

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.

Please contact us to check if you are on the register of electors. If you are not then you can apply by filling out a register to vote form (pdf, 18 KB) (opens new window). See our register to vote page for more information.

How to apply for a proxy vote

Complete the Proxy Vote Application Form (pdf, 42 KB) (opens new window). Each person requiring a proxy vote must fill in a form. Return your completed form to Electoral Services, FREEPOST (NAT 11762), Bristol, BS1 5BR (no stamp needed),or fax to 0117 922 3461.

What happens after I have applied?

Provided there is enough time before the election, 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.

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 5pm on polling day. The application form also has to be certified by an appropriate person, for example a medical practitioner or the person in charge of a residential home. Please contact us without delay if you need to apply for an emergency medical proxy.

Being a proxy voter

It’s simple to vote as someone’s proxy. You will be sent a special proxy poll card with details of where you should go to vote for that person. You should go to the polling station specified in the letter and vote for the candidate specified by the person you are proxy voting for.

If you can’t attend the polling station you can apply for a postal proxy by completing the postal proxy application form (pdf, 35 KB) (opens new window).

If you are going to the polling station just tell the staff there that you are voting as a proxy and they will tell you what to do.  Don’t forget to take your proxy poll card – this will speed up the ballot paper issuing process.

Please contact us if you require any further information about proxy voting.