Proxy Voting

What is proxy voting?

A proxy vote is where you can appoint someone to vote on your behalf (proxy) either at your polling station or by post (postal proxy).

If you have appointed a proxy but then find you are able to attend at the polling station in person, you can do so providing your proxy has not already voted on your behalf.

How do I apply for a proxy vote?

If you are a registered elector in the city of Southampton you may apply to vote by proxy at anytime during the year. However on the occasion of an election the application must be delivered to Electoral Services no later than 5.00 pm on the 6th working day before the election.

You will need to complete and return a proxy vote application form stating who you would like to vote on your behalf and for how long you will require the proxy vote. Regulations require applicants to supply a date of birth and current signature to help prevent fraudulent claims. If you are unable to supply a current signature please contact Electoral Services.

Who can be my proxy?

This person must be legally entitled and willing to vote for you and can be a family member, friend, neighbour or anyone else that you can trust to cast your vote correctly. A person can only act as a proxy for two people at each election to whom they are not related and/or any number of close relatives.

Are there different types of proxy voting?

Yes, you can apply for a permanent proxy vote which is only available to certain people on the grounds of health, employment or full time education commitments. The form may need to be supported by a suitably qualified person as listed in the notes supplied with the form.

You can also apply for a proxy vote for a particular election. This type of proxy vote is available for any reason and you do not need supporting by a qualified person.

At the time of an election, if you are suddenly physically incapacitated or taken ill after 5.00pm on the 6th working day before the election, you can apply to vote by proxy for medical reasons up until 5.00pm on polling day.

Will you send details to my proxy?

Yes, once your application has been accepted a letter will be sent to your proxy to confirm the arrangement.

What if my proxy is unable to attend at my polling station?

If your proxy is unable to attend at the polling station they can apply to have your ballot paper sent to them. This would then become a postal proxy. On the application form they will have to provide their date of birth and signature. At the time of an election there would be a deadline to receive a completed application form for this facility.

How will my proxy know when and how to vote for me?

Your proxy will be sent details on how to cast your vote approx 6 days before the day of election.

Where do I get a Proxy Voting application form?

There are various types of proxy voting application forms. To ensure you are given the correct form please contact the office on the telephone number below.

Contact

Electoral Services,
Southampton City Council,
Civic Centre,
Southampton SO14 7LY
Telephone: 023 8083 4135
E-mail elections@southampton.gov.uk

For more information visit www.aboutmyvote.co.uk