How to Register to Vote

Update Your Address with the Electoral Register

You need to update your address on the Electoral Register to ensure you're able to vote in future elections. The Electoral Register is the list of people who are eligible to vote in the UK.

How to update your address:

• Online:

  • Go to the GOV.UK website: Visit the official government website for voter registration at https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

  • Log in: If you’re registered online already, log in to your account.

  • Fill out your new details: Provide your new address and other required details. The system will guide you through the process.

  • Confirmation: After completing the form, you’ll receive confirmation that your details have been updated.

• By Post:

  • Download the form: If you prefer paper forms, you can download the voter registration form from the GOV.UK website or request one from your local council.

  • Fill out the form: Complete the form with your new address and other details.

  • Send it back: Mail the completed form to your local council’s electoral services team. You can find the address on the form or the local council website.

• By Phone or In Person:

  • If online forms or writing seem overwhelming, you can also contact your local council by phone or visit them in person to update your details. Look up your local council's contact information on their website.

Confirm Your Registration Has Been Updated

Once you have updated your address:

• Wait for confirmation: Your council will send you a confirmation letter once your address has been updated on the Electoral Register. This may take a few weeks.

• Check your details: If you don’t receive a letter, or if you’re unsure whether the change has been made, contact your local council to check that your registration is correct.

Apply for a Postal Vote

A postal vote allows you to vote by mail rather than in person, which can be helpful if you have anxiety or find it difficult to go to a polling station.

How to apply for a postal vote:

1. Download the postal vote application form:

• Visit https://www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote to download the postal vote application form.

• Alternatively, contact your local council and ask for the form to be sent to you by post.

1. Complete the application form:

• Fill in your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, address, and your new address for voting purposes.

• You will also need to sign the form and possibly provide a form of identification, depending on your local council’s requirements.

1. Submit the application form:

• Mail the completed form to your local council’s electoral services department. The address will be provided on the form.

• You must apply well in advance of an election. You’ll need to apply before the deadline, which is usually about 11 to 12 working days before the election.

1. Wait for your postal ballot:

• Once your application is accepted, you’ll receive a postal ballot pack before the election date.

• If you’ve requested a postal vote, make sure you fill it out and return it before the deadline, which is usually a few days before the election day.

Apply for a Proxy Vote

A proxy vote allows someone you trust to vote on your behalf if you are unable to go to the polling station for any reason.

How to apply for a proxy vote:

Download the proxy vote application form:

• Visit https://www.gov.uk/apply-proxy-vote to download the form. Alternatively, you can contact your local council for a paper copy.

Complete the application form:

• Fill in your details, including your name, address, and the name of the person who will be voting on your behalf (the proxy).

• You’ll need to provide a reason for requesting a proxy vote, such as anxiety or autism, to explain why you are unable to vote in person.

Submit the application form:

• Mail or hand in the completed form to your local council’s electoral services department. Make sure to do this well before the deadline for applications (usually a few weeks before the election).

Confirm your proxy vote:

• After submitting the application, you’ll receive confirmation from your council. If your application is approved, you will receive a letter with details about who your proxy is and when the vote will take place.

Stay Informed About Voting Deadlines

It's important to keep track of any deadlines related to postal and proxy votes to avoid missing out on voting. These deadlines are typically posted well in advance of elections.

• Make a note of deadlines: On your calendar or phone, mark the deadlines for registering to vote, applying for postal or proxy votes, and the election day itself.

• Stay informed: Keep an eye on the news or your council’s website to know when elections are coming up and what the deadlines are.

Prepare for the Voting Process (If Using a Proxy or Postal Vote)

• Postal Vote:

  • When you receive your postal vote pack, ensure you read all the instructions carefully. Complete your ballot, sign it (if necessary), and return it by the date mentioned in the instructions.

• Proxy Vote:

  • If you're using a proxy vote, talk to the person who will vote on your behalf. Make sure they understand how you would like them to vote, and ensure they are able to attend the polling station on election day.

  • It might be helpful to provide your proxy with a written note if you feel you can’t explain your choices on the day of the election.

Stay in Touch with Your Local Council

If you have any issues with the voting process or need further assistance:

• Contact your local council’s electoral office: They can offer support and guidance on how to apply for postal or proxy voting, and help with any other concerns.

• Ask for additional help: If you need help with the forms or understanding the process, ask someone you trust, or contact an advocacy service that can assist.

Final Thoughts

Changing your address for voting purposes and applying for a postal or proxy vote doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By breaking it down into small steps, you can manage the process with more ease. If you feel anxious at any stage, remember that you can reach out for support from your local council or someone you trust.