You can apply to vote by post for a particular election, a set period of time or for all future elections. You can also vote by post if you are abroad on Election Day. But you must be registered to vote first.
How do I apply for a Postal Vote?
Anyone on the Electoral Register can apply for a postal vote.
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You do not have to give a reason for wanting a postal vote;
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You can apply for a postal vote for a particular election, for a specified time or you can have a permanent postal vote;
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If you change your mind and decide you would prefer to vote at a polling station you can apply to have your postal cancelled.
Why do I have to provide my signature and Date of Birth?
When you apply for a postal vote you will be asked to complete a form giving your personal identifiers, namely your date of birth and your signature these are used as your security information to prevent anyone else from using your vote.
If you wish to apply for a postal vote or wish to amend/cancel your postal vote please contact Electoral Services on 0191 433 2151, 0191 433 2166 or 0191 433 2164 or e-mail electoralregistration@gateshead.gov.uk|
How do I vote by Post?
If you have applied for a postal vote you should receive a card before the election telling you that you have a postal vote.
This card will give information about the how you will receive your postal vote papers and what to do if you don't receive them. Namely:
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The dates when you should receive your postal vote papers;
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The first date you can ask for a replacement set of postal vote papers
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What to do if you lose or spoil your ballot paper;
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If you are on the register as a postal voter and you don't want to vote by post please contact the electoral services team as soon as possible.
Approximately a week before the election you will receive a postal ballot pack.
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Read the instructions carefully;
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Complete your ballot paper in private;
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Make sure that you complete your security statement and not someone else's in your home;
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Provide your signature and date of birth;
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Remember to post your ballot paper back in good time before Election Day.
If any of the information on your security statement is not completed or does not match the security information you provided when you applied for your postal vote your vote will be rejected.
What if I forget to return my postal vote in time can I vote at a polling station instead?
No. If you have forgotten to post your vote you cannot vote at a polling station.
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You can still complete your postal vote in the usual way and can hand the sealed envelope to the Presiding Officer at the polling station up until 10.00pm on Election Day.