About proxy voting

Voting by proxy is an easy way of voting if you are unable to get to the polling station.  'By proxy' means that you can appoint someone that you trust to vote on your behalf. 

As part of the Elections Act 2022 there are changes to some of the rules relating to proxy voters. You will only be able to act as a proxy for up to two people living in the UK (or a maximum of four people, with two people living in the UK and two people registered as living overseas).

It will also be possible to apply for some types of proxy vote online. Voters will not be able to apply online if their application needs attesting or if applying for an emergency proxy vote.

Voting by proxy can be useful if you fall ill and are unable to get to the polling station, or if you are abroad during an election. It can also be useful if you are overseas in a country too far away to send back a postal vote in time for the election, for example if you are in the Armed Forces or deployed abroad.

Emergency proxy

If you find out after the deadline to apply for a proxy vote that you cannot go to the polling station in person, then you may be able to apply for an emergency proxy. Applications may need to be attested.

Please read the guidance notes accompanying each form before you submit your application. You can apply for an emergency proxy vote up to 5pm on polling day.

Completed paper application forms can be returned:

  • By email: [email protected]
  • Deliver it in person at Cheltenham Borough Council, Municipal Offices, Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 9SA
  • By post: Electoral Services, Cheltenham Borough Council, Municipal Offices, Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 9SA

Apply for a proxy vote

You can apply for a proxy vote as long as you have registered. When you apply for a proxy vote you have to provide a reason.

You can apply for a proxy vote if:

  • you are unable to go to the polling station for one particular election, for example if you are away on holiday
  • you have a physical condition that means you cannot go to the polling station on election day
  • your employment means that you are unable to go to the polling station on election day
  • you are attending an educational course on election day and unable to get to the polling station
  • you are a British Citizen living overseas but you must be registered as an overseas elector
  • you are a crown servant or a member of His Majesty's Armed Services

With the exception of being registered blind, you may have to get someone to support your application to confirm that your reason for applying to vote by proxy is valid. Please read the notes that come with the application form to find out who can support your application.

When to apply for a proxy vote

You should submit an application as soon as you become aware you will not be able to vote yourself. The deadline for applying to vote by proxy is normally six working days before an election or referendum.

Who can vote on my behalf?

Anyone can be your proxy as long as they are eligible to vote in the election, are registered to vote themselves and hold an accepted form of photo ID.  Your proxy cannot be a proxy for more than two people living in the UK (or a maximum of four people, with two people living in the UK and two people registered as living overseas).