Emergency provisions in place for East Dunbartonshire voters for May 6 Scottish elections

Voters have a range of options for casting their ballot to choose who represents them in the Scottish Parliament. they can do so in person, by post or by appointing someone they trust to vote in their place, known as a proxy vote.

The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm on Tuesday 6 April, and the deadline to apply for a proxy vote is 5pm on Tuesday 27 April.

For those who choose to vote in person, polling places will be following all public health guidelines.

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 and 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.

Gerry Cornes, Returning Officer for East Dunbartonshire, 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 either vote at a polling station, by post or by proxy.

“You can find more information about how to apply to vote by post or proxy on the Scottish Parliament Election page of our website.

“However you choose to vote, you must be registered by Monday 19 April to have your say at the election – the easiest way to register is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote”

Andy O’Neill, Head of the Electoral Commission in Scotland added,

“If you decide 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.

"It’s easy to apply and you can find out how by visiting the Electoral Commission website.”

For further info, visit www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voter. which will continue to be updated ahead of the polls.