Don't lose your vote

This year, along with the local elections in May, it is expected that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will call a general election. To ensure you have your say, you need to be registered to vote so we've pulled together some information to help guide you through the process

Deadline for registering to vote in the 2 May 2024 elections

To be able to vote in the next local elections, you need to register by 11:59pm on 16 April 2024 

Registering to vote

You need to be registered to vote in elections and referendums. Once you have registered, you'll only need to register again if you have changed your name, address or nationality.

If you have access to the internet, you can register to vote online. This usually takes about 5 minutes.

You can also register to vote by post. You can either download the appropriate forms or call Age UK Wakefield District for support with this.

How to vote

In person
By post
By proxy

Voting in person

You vote in person at a polling station usually in a public building,
such as a school or local hall, your polling station will be on your poll card.

Your poll card

You’ll be sent a poll card just before an election or referendum telling you when to vote and at which polling station.

You can only vote at the polling station location on your card. You do not have to take your poll card with you.

If you have not received a poll card but think you should, contact your local Electoral Registration Office.

You can still vote if you’ve lost your card.

Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on the day of an election.

Voting if you have a disability

If you have a disability, your local Electoral Registration Office can tell you about:

• physical access, for example wheelchair ramps and disabled parking spaces
• low-level polling booths
• any specific equipment you need

Every polling station must provide at least one large print display version of the ballot paper.

Voting by post

You must apply for a postal vote if you want to vote by post, for example if:

• you’re away from home
• you’re abroad and want to vote in England, Scotland or Wales

Apply for a postal vote

You can apply for a postal vote for one of the following:

• a single election on a specific date
• a specific period if you want to vote in England, Scotland or Wales
• up to 3 years

You can:

• apply online for a postal vote
• apply by post for a postal vote

Voting by proxy

If you’re unable to vote in person you can ask someone to vote on your behalf. 

You can only apply for a proxy vote under certain circumstances, including:

• being away on polling day
• being registered as an overseas voter
• having a medical issue or disability
• not being able to vote in person because of work or military service

Your proxy should be someone you trust to vote on your behalf. You’ll need to tell them which candidate (or referendum outcome) you want to vote for.

How to apply for a proxy vote

You can:

• apply online for a proxy vote
• apply by post for a proxy vote in England, Scotland or Wales

If you need support with any of the above, please get in touch with our office on 01977 552114.