We aim to make the voting process accessible to all voters. We offer a range of support to enable electors to vote independently or with assistance.
To help make polling stations accessible we provide:
- ramps where needed to improve wheelchair accessibility
- large print ballot papers
- signage to help electors
- magnifying glasses and sheets
- pencil grips
- low level voting booths
- additional lighting
- seats for voters
- a Tactile Voting Device
- audio recordings of ballot papers
Some polling stations also have hearing loops installed. The Council may also be able to provide a portable hearing loop if it would be helpful to someone that wishes to vote in a polling station. If you would like to find out more or if you need any specific assistance to assist you to vote in your polling station please contact Electoral Services by email elections@sevenoaks.gov.uk or call 01732 227000.
All electors who vote in a polling station will need to show an approved form of photo ID.
If you do not wish to vote in a polling station, you can choose to vote by post or by proxy
Support in the polling station
If an elector needs assistance to complete their ballot paper, they may bring a companion or ask the friendly and helpful staff in the polling station to assist them.
You can ask someone to:
- assist you moving around the polling station
- read out the candidates' names and parties on the ballot paper in order or ask for support to access our audio ballot papers
- explain the voting options to you
- use their knowledge of your communication methods to understand who you want to vote for
- come into the polling booth with you
- mark the ballot paper with your decision if you permit them to do so
Someone else cannot:
- decide for you on who to vote for
- mark the ballot paper against your wishes
- stop you from voting because you have a disability or require additional support
Request support or report an issue
If you:
- would like to make a request before polling day for additional equipment or support in your polling station, or
- would like to report an accessibility issue at a polling station
Please contact Electoral Services by email elections@sevenoaks.gov.uk or call 01732 227000
Find your polling station
Visit the Where Do I Vote website provide by Democracy Club to find your polling station. You just need to enter your postcode.
If you would prefer to vote when polling stations are likely to be quieter and less busy, you may wish to vote between 7am and 1pm, or towards the close of poll, between 9pm and 10pm.
My Vote My Voice
My Vote My Voice are on a mission to make polling accessible for everyone, and are working to encourage people with learning disabilities and autistic people to vote.
Through their website they provide a range of information and easy read guidance about how politics works, on voting and about supporting voters.