Polling station rules: don’t get caught out on election day | UK News

Voting is a simple, but also serious, process, with strict rules in place to ensure the election is fair.

Wondering if you can bring your own pen, dog or favorite political party sweatshirt to the polls?

Sky News has run down the rules for Election Day so you don’t get caught out.

Do I need ID?

Yes. This is worth repeating because this is the first general election where photo ID is required at the polling station.

There are 22 different types of identifiers you can use – you can find a list in our Complete guide to voter identification rules.

The ID can be obsolete, as long as it still looks like you and the name is the same as the one used to register to vote.

People who do not have any of the accepted forms of identification can register for a voter authorization certificate – although the deadline for doing so has passed.

Can I bring my dog?

Given the popularity of Dogs in polling stationsOne might be tempted to think that they were guests of honor on election day.

But in reality, assistance dogs are the only pets that are guaranteed entry into polling stations.

The rest of the time, it is up to polling station staff to decide whether or not to allow dogs inside – and according to Electoral Commission advice, they are not normally allowed because they can disturb voters.

Pet charity Blue Cross has published guidelines on how to take your pup to vote and recommends checking with the polling place in advance.

And the children?

Children are welcome at polling stations and can go to the polling station with their parents or guardian.

However, they must not mark the electoral map.

Can I take a selfie?

You must not take photos – including selfies – inside the polling station.

That’s because it’s illegal to share how someone voted, is about to vote, or the ballot’s unique identification number — information that could end up in photos taken inside the polling place.

Breaking this law can result in a fine of up to £5,000 or six months in prison.

You and your dogs are welcome to take photos outside the polling station.

Does this mean I can’t use my phone in the polling station?

You can use your phone inside the polling station – including in the voting booth, for example, if you need to use the flashlight or an app to help you read the ballot.

It is the responsibility of the returning officer, i.e. the person responsible for the polling station, to establish the rules of the place concerning the use of mobile phones and to train the staff accordingly.

You will be required to remove your headphones when giving your name, address and ID to staff, and if you have a loud phone conversation you can expect to be told to be quiet.

Can I vote if I’ve been drinking?

Voting while intoxicated is not illegal.

However, if it is suspected that you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the responsible staff may ask you questions.

If they are not satisfied with your answers, you may be turned away until you have regained your composure.

Can I discuss who I am voting for?

Political discussions are not allowed inside and in the immediate vicinity of the polling station, for fear that they might influence other voters.

If polling station staff hear you talking about the candidates, parties or the person you are voting for, they will ask you to stop.

Can I spoil my vote?

Yes, if you don’t want it to be counted.

Spoiled ballots are a way for voters to express their dissatisfaction with the choice of candidates or political parties.

Invalid votes are declared invalid and the number of blank and invalid votes is announced along with the other election results.

Spoiling your vote can mean voting for all candidates or none, or writing or drawing on the ballot.

However, be careful when marking anything other than a cross on your ballot if you want your vote to be counted.

You do not have to sign your ballot. If your name is identifiable, your vote will not count because it must be anonymous.

Should I vote?

You are not required to vote by law – it is your choice whether or not to do so.

Can I wear political slogans while voting?

There is nothing to stop you from wearing clothing with a political slogan while voting, but campaigning at polling stations is prohibited. You must therefore leave the premises immediately after voting.

Can I wear a face mask?

You can wear a face covering, including a veil for religious reasons or a face mask, but you may be asked to remove it briefly so that staff can verify that the photo ID you are using is you.

You can request that your identity be verified privately or that it be done by a female staff member.

Learn more:
The Ultimate Guide to the General Election
How to vote if you’re away on election day

Can I use my own pen?

Pencils will be provided for those wishing to vote, but if you have a lucky pen, you can bring your own.

The pencils are used for practical reasons, according to the Electoral Commission: with ink pens, there is a risk that they will run out or that the ink will stain the ballot paper, which can lead to it being rejected if it appears spoiled.

Can I go to a polling station if I am not registered to vote?

You can only enter a polling station if you are registered to vote at that station.

Staff at the door will ask for your name, address and ID before handing you your ballot papers and directing you to a voting booth.

Can I get help if I am disabled?

You can bring another adult into the voting booth if you have a disability and need help voting.

This is where there is an exception to the rule that only registered voters are allowed to enter this polling station.

Anyone over 18 can help you vote. You can also ask polling station staff for help.

Measures to make voting accessible Measures should also be put in place, including providing a tactile voting device for blind or partially sighted voters, having a low-height voting booth and displaying a large-print version of the ballot paper.