Voting by proxy
Important notice - if you appoint a proxy to vote on your behalf, the person you appoint to vote must show their own photographic ID at the polling station. Find out more about Voter ID.
If you are unable to go to your polling station on election day, you may wish to appoint someone to vote on your behalf. This is called a proxy vote.
Proxy voting - how to apply before an election (not in an emergency)
You can have a proxy vote if:
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You are registered blind.
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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 - for example, because you are on holiday.
You can apply for a proxy vote online. You must have your National Insurance Number (or other identity documentation) and you will need to provide a copy of your signature.
If you cannot register online, you can download an application from from the GOV.UK website, complete it and return it by email to electoral_services@sandwell.gov.uk by the deadline.
You will need to scan the completed form as it must contain your signature and National Insurance Number and then email it as an attachment to electoral_services@sandwell.gov.uk
If you cannot supply your National Insurance Number, please state on the form why. You will be required to show other forms of identification and the elections team will contact you to make these checks.
The closing time and date for proxy vote applications is 5pm, six working days before the election.
Other reasons for having a proxy vote
You can also have a proxy vote for the following reasons, which are usually long term and generally require attestation (must be signed in support):
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 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 vote
In certain circumstances, where you have an emergency that means you can't vote in person, you can apply for an emergency proxy.
This must be something that you weren't aware of before the normal proxy vote deadline.
- You have a medical emergency or disability (PDF)
- You are away for work (PDF)
- Your photo ID is lost, stolen, destroyed or damaged This form can also be used if your Anonymous Elector's Document is lost, stolen, destroyed or damaged.
These applications can be made up to 5pm on polling day and must be emailed to electoral_services@sandwell.gov.uk
You will need to scan the completed form as it must contain your signature and National Insurance Number and then email it as an attachment.
If you cannot supply your National Insurance Number, please state on the form why. You will be required to show other forms of identification and the elections team will contact you to make these checks.