Apply for a postal vote

If you are unable to get to your polling station on election day, you can vote by post on a temporary or permanent basis. You will receive your ballot paper by post approximately two weeks before the election day.

Who can apply for a postal vote?

Anyone registered to vote. You do not need a reason to vote by post.

How can I apply for a postal vote?

You can now apply online for a postal vote. You will need to provide the following information when completing your application:

• the address where you are registered to vote
• your National Insurance number or other identity documents, for example a passport
• the specific date of the election or referendum you want to make a postal vote, if you only want a one off postal vote

You'll also need to upload a photo of your handwritten signature in black ink on plain white paper.

If you cannot provide a signature or one that always looks the same, you may be able to apply for a postal vote signature waiver within the service.

You might be asked for extra documents to identify you.

If you cannot apply online and would like a paper application form posted to you, please contact the Electoral Services staff on the contact details below or alternatively you can download a  postal vote application form (PDF) [147KB] (opens new window) .

Please return your completed paper application form to the address below or email a clear scanned copy to elections@sthelens.gov.uk

Where can I get my postal vote sent to?

You can have your postal vote sent to your home address or any other address, even overseas. If the address given is not your home address you must give a reason why you want the postal vote sending elsewhere. Postal voters overseas must have enough time to receive and return the ballot paper by election day.

When you vote

• Sign the security statement and enter your date of birth
• Complete your ballot paper in secret, on your own
• Don't let anyone else vote for you
• Don't let anyone else see your vote
• Don't give the ballot paper to anyone else
• Put the ballot paper in the envelope and seal it up yourself

Returning your postal vote

• Take it to the post box yourself
• If you can't get to the post box, give it to somebody you know and trust to post it for you
• Don't hand it to a candidate or party worker unless no other way is practical
• Don't leave it where someone else can pick it up

You must return your ballot paper by election day, or your vote will not be counted.

This is your vote

If anyone tries to help you against your will, or force you to give them your postal vote, you should contact the police.

If you have any questions or would like a postal vote application form please contact us, using the contact details below: