Polling stations across the Isle of Wight have opened this morning (Thursday) as the country votes in the General Election. But what are the dos and don’ts of voting?
Island Echo has compiled a series of questions and answers to help you vote today. By first light tomorrow we should know who is to represent the Isle of Wight in Parliament – Bob Seely, Vix Lowthion, Richard Quigley, Carl Feeney, Karl Love or Daryll Pitcher.
Where can I go to vote?
Polling stations are generally located close to your registered address in a church hall, school or other public building. The exact location can be found on your poll card. Alternatively, visit https://wheredoivote.co.uk/.
You don’t need to take your poll card – simply give the officers your name and address.
What time can I vote?
You can arrive at any time between 07:00 – 22:00. There may be a short queue at busy times, but generally voting only takes a few minutes.
What happens when I arrive?
Staff at your local polling station will ask you for your details to confirm you are registered to vote. Remember, you do not need your polling card to vote. Once everything has been confirmed, you will be handed a ballot paper. This piece of paper contains the names of the 6 candidates standing on the Isle of Wight.
You then proceed to one of the booths to cast your vote. To vote, simply put an X in the corresponding box to the candidate you wish to vote for. Once complete, fold the ballot paper in half and place it into the secure ballot box indicated.
Do not write anything else on the piece of paper as this will void your vote.
Can I discuss who to vote for inside the polling station?
No. Political discussion is banned inside the polling station with other votes or staff.
Once outside the polling station, you can discuss your vote with anyone you like. However, it is a criminal offence to reveal how someone else voted. The punishment is severe – up to a £5,000 fine and/or 6 months in prison.
Can I take photographs?
Taking photographs inside the polling station is not recommended as you run the risk of revealing how someone else voted. Furthermore, you are not allowed to photograph your own ballot paper.
The Electoral Commission urges voters to take photographs outside the polling station though to encourage others to turn out.
Can I take my pet to the polls?
Polling stations don’t have to let animals inside, with the exception for assistance dogs. It might be an idea to leave the pets at home to play safe, but there is a growing trend of #dogsatpollingstations taking social media by storm.
Is a friend or family member allowed to accompany me to the polling station?
Yes, if they are registered at the same polling station, although they are not allowed inside the individual booth whilst you cast your vote. If they are registered at a different polling station they may be refused entry altogether.
If you have children you can take them inside the polling station with you, but they cannot mark the ballot paper on your behalf.
I’m disabled – what assistance can I receive in casting my vote?
Those unable to mark their own ballot paper can request the presiding officer to mark it instead. The presiding officer can take the ballot outside the polling station for those who are physically unable to enter the polling station.
When will we know who will be our next MP?
Polling stations close at 22:00 and votes will be verified and counted shortly after. On the Isle of Wight the final result is expected to be at around 04:00 tomorrow morning – but this is dependent on the turnout.
Do I have to pay £1.50 parking at brookside car park to vote