Register to vote

Postal and proxy voting

Electors may request a postal vote or appoint someone to vote on their behalf (proxy voter) if they are unable to go along to the polling station.

Voting by post

  • it is possible to vote by post in an election
  • if you apply to vote by post you will receive a postal pack (ballot paper, postal voting statement and return envelopes) at the address you have requested
  • you will not be able to vote at a polling station. However it is possible to hand your completed postal pack into a polling station within our area if you are unable to post it in time

Somebody voting on your behalf, a proxy vote

If you cannot vote in person, you can apply to vote by proxy. Anyone can be your proxy as long as they are eligible to vote in the election and are willing to vote on your behalf.

You have to provide a reason for needing a proxy vote. For example:

  • you are going away on holiday
  • you have a physical condition that prevents you from getting to the polling place
  • the kind of work you do means you cannot get to the polling station
  • you have to attend an educational course
  • you are a Crown Servant or a member of Her Majesty's Armed forces

Electoral registration

Office hours: Monday to Thursday 8:45am-5pm, Friday 8:45am-3:45pm

Address: Scottish Borders Council
Newtown St Boswells
Melrose
TD6 0SA

Telephone: 01835 825100

Fax: 01835 825101