Three ways voters can cast their vote in May

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Press Release

Three ways voters can cast their vote in May

On Thursday 6 May, residents across Mid Sussex will go to the polls to have their say on who represents them at West Sussex County Council and who will be the Police & Crime Commissioner for Sussex.

The elections will take place at a time when Covid-19 continues to present a risk to public health, so safety measures will be in place at polling stations to ensure people stay safe when casting their vote.

Voters have a range of options for casting their ballot – in person, by post or by appointing someone they trust to vote in their place, known as a proxy vote.

For anyone who is unable to vote in person, or would prefer not to vote at the polling station, it is quick and easy to apply for a postal or proxy vote. Simply visit www.midsussex.gov.uk/elections-voting and complete the relevant application form. The latest the Council can accept postal vote applications is 5pm on 20 April, and for a proxy vote applications the deadline is 5pm on 27 April.

Tom Clark, Returning Officer for Mid Sussex said:

“It’s important to make sure your voice is heard at the elections in May, and we are putting measures in place to help you cast your vote safely. You can vote at a polling station, by post or by proxy.

“If you’re voting in person, help keep yourself and others safe by following the safety measures that will be in place at the polling station and bring your poll card to speed up the voting process.

“If you wish to vote by post, don’t wait until the deadline to apply. Sending your application now will make sure it is processed early, and your postal vote can be sent to you more quickly once the candidates for the election are confirmed.

“However, you choose to vote, you must be registered in order to have your say at the elections. If you are not already on the electoral register at your address, the easiest way to register is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.”

For those who vote in person, polling stations will be safe places to vote on 6 May. Voters are encouraged to keep themselves and others safe by:

  • Wearing a face covering
  • Bringing their own pen or pencil
  • Cleaning their hands when entering and leaving the polling station
  • Keeping a safe distance

Voters should not attend the polling station if they have symptoms of Covid-19, or if they have been asked to self-isolate. There will be provisions in place to apply for an emergency proxy vote if required due to health circumstances.

For more information about the elections on Thursday 6 May 2021 visit www.midsussex.gov.uk/elections, email elections@midsussex.gov.uk or call 01444 477003.

ENDS