You need to register to vote to take part in an election.
Voting takes place in polling stations, although an elector can apply to vote by post or appoint a proxy to vote for them.
Voter ID
All voters are required to show photo ID before they receive their ballot paper at a polling station. If you do not have accepted photo ID, you can apply for a free voter ID document, which is known as a Voter Authority Certificate.
You can find out more about accepted forms of photo ID, how to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate on the Electoral Commission website.
Accessibility
We are committed to making sure that everyone who wants to vote can do so. We offer a range of services for voters before and on polling day, including -
- assistance to complete electoral registration forms and postal vote packs
- information about registration and voting available in alternative formats on request
- polling stations accessible to wheelchair users and people who have limited mobility
- a device called a Tactile Voting Device available in polling stations to enable blind and partially sighted electors to vote in person
- large print handheld ballot papers available in every polling station
- specially trained staff available to provide information about how to vote and to provide assistance when required
- the option of taking a companion, for instance, a close relative or elector qualified to vote at the election with you for assistance
If you want to know more about support and assistance available for registration and voting -
- email - electoral.services@hullcc.gov.uk
- telephone - 01482 300 302
Vote in person
If you choose to vote in person, you have to vote at the specific polling station for your house. You will receive polling information through the post prior to an election advising you of your polling station location. Make sure you have accepted form of photo ID or your Voter Authority Certificate with you before you go to the polling station.
The polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm on polling day. The address of your polling station is printed on the poll card we send to each elector a few weeks before an election or referendum.
What to do on voting day
On voting day -
- go to your polling station. This is usually a school, local hall or public building near where you live
- tell the staff your name and address and show your photo ID. You don't need to take your poll card with you but it can help
- you are given a ballot paper for each poll which lists the candidates and their political parties
- the ballot paper tells you how many votes you have or you can check with a member of staff. Go to a polling booth so that you can make your vote in secret
- put a cross next to the candidates you wish to vote for, fold your ballot paper in half and put it in the ballot box
If there is anything you are unsure of please ask a member of staff at the station.