Voting by proxy
What is proxy voting?
Proxy voting is another way of casting your vote during an election, and enables you to appoint a person to vote on your behalf. The appointed person can vote on your behalf in two ways - by going to the polling station itself or by voting by post known as a "postal proxy".
Can anyone apply for a proxy vote?
No, proxy voting is not on demand and therefore a reason must be given as to why an elector needs to appoint a proxy.
You can have a proxy vote if:
- You are registered blind
- You receive the higher rate of Disability Living Allowance
- There are circumstances resulting in you being unable to go to the polling station at a particular election.(eg you will be away on holiday at the time of the election)
You can also have a proxy vote for the following reasons, which are usually long term and generally require attestation:
Physical incapacity
The application must be supported by a registered medical practitioner, registered nurse or Christian Science practitioner providing that the person is giving you care or treatment. If you are in a residential home or sheltered housing then the head of the home or warden can support your application.
Occupation, service or employment
The application must be supported by your employer. If you are self-employed the person supporting your application must be 18 or over, must know your circumstances and must not be related to you.
Emergency proxy applications - due to incapacity
If you are taken ill after the closing time and date for the applications to vote by proxy you can now apply until 5.00pm on election day. Please contact the Electoral Registration Office on 0161 793 3195 for an application form.
Who can I appoint as a proxy?
The person you appoint as your proxy must be registered as an elector and must also be able to vote in the type of election concerned, irrespective of whether they are currently registered as an elector. A proxy may not vote at the same election for more than two people unless they are a close relative (husband, wife, parent, grandparent, brother, sister or grandchild) of the people they are voting for.
How do I apply for a proxy vote?
If you would like to vote by proxy, you can contact the Elections Office direct and we will post you an application form. A separate form is required for each person applying for a proxy vote.
Once completed and signed, please return your form(s) to the Elections Office, Salford Civic Centre, Chorley Road, Swinton, Salford, M27 5DA.
Please note we are unable to process forms electronically because a signature is required for legal purposes.
To vote by proxy at election time your application must be received by the elections office no later than six working days prior to the election date.
However, if your proxy wants to vote by post, their application must be received by the elections office no later than 11 working days prior to the election date.
Postal proxy ballot papers will be sent to your proxy approximately seven to ten days before polling day.
If your proxy wishes to vote at the polling station a proxy poll card will be sent approximately six to seven days before polling day.
This page was last updated on 11 June 2010
