Ways to vote
Voting by proxy
Apply for a proxy vote
If you're registered to vote and you can't get to the polling station yourself, you can nominate someone you trust to vote on your behalf.
The person voting on your behalf can either go to your polling station to cast your vote, or once they have been appointed as your proxy, they can apply to vote for you by post.
Anyone can be your proxy provided that they are:
- registered to vote
- eligible to vote in that type of election
- willing to vote on your behalf
You must provide a reason why you can not get to your polling station in person and your proxy vote will only be in place for a specific election (unless you have a reason for a long-term proxy vote).
To apply please download, print and complete the application form and send it to Southwark Council, Electoral Services, PO Box 64529, London SE1P 5LX.
Alternatively you can send a clear scanned copy or high quality photograph as an email attachment to the postal votes team. Please remember to include your name and address in the email.
Long-term proxy vote
In certain circumstances, you can apply for a long-term proxy vote. The form you need to complete depends on which of the reasons below apply:
- you have a disability
- you are away on an educational course
- you are away for work
- you are registered as an overseas voter
- you work overseas for the British Council or as a Crown servant
- you are serving overseas in the Armed Forces
Please contact us if you need us to post you a paper copy of the application form.
Postal proxy vote
If the person you have appointed as your proxy lives outside of Southwark or they cannot travel to your designated polling station, they can apply to cast your vote by post. This is called a postal proxy vote.
The deadline to apply for a postal proxy vote is 5pm, 11 working days before the poll.
Please contact us if you’re proxy needs to apply to vote for you by post.
Change or cancel a proxy vote
To change an existing proxy or postal proxy vote, you must return your new proxy vote application form by 5pm, 11 working days before the poll.
The easiest way to cancel your proxy vote is by emailing Electoral Services giving your full name and address, and the date from which you wish to cancel your proxy vote. We must receive your written request at least 11 working days before an election.
Emergency proxy vote
In certain circumstances, where you have an emergency that means you cannot vote in person, you can apply for an emergency proxy.
This must be something that you weren't aware of before the ordinary proxy vote deadline.
An application can be made up to 5pm on polling day. Please email the emergency proxy team to apply if:
Page last updated: 24 May 2023
