Voting by proxy
Changes to voting by proxy from October 2023
From October 2023 there will be some changes to voting by proxy. When you apply for a proxy vote you will need to provide proof of your identity. This for both online and paper applications. This will include your:
- National Insurance number
- signature
- date of birth.
There will be a limit to how many people a voter can act as a proxy for. Currently, a person can act as a proxy for an unlimited number of close relatives and two other people. Under the new rules, voters would be limited to acting as a proxy for two people, regardless of their relationship. Anyone voting on behalf of UK voters who live overseas could act as a proxy for up to four people.
A proxy vote means that you appoint someone to vote on your behalf if you are unable to get to the polling station on election day, so long as you are registered to vote. This may be due to a disability, employment, or education.
If you want a proxy vote this is now an online process. You must have one of the following reasons to apply to vote by proxy:
- due to attendance of on an educational course
- if you're living overseas
- if you're a Crown servant or British Council employee
- due to employment
- due to a disability
- if you're in the armed forces.
To apply for a proxy vote please go to the GOV.uk site.
If you can't apply online, please email ballotbox@slough.gov.uk for a paper form.
The paper form must be returned to: Electoral Services, Observatory House, 25 Windsor Road, Slough, SL1 2EL.
Please email Electoral Services ballotbox@slough.gov.uk if you have problems with your proxy vote application form.