Mark Whitehead 10 November 2017

Commissioners highlight problems for voters with disabilities

Some people were unable to vote in the last general election because of their disabilities, according to the Electoral Commission.

It says most voters with learning and physical disabilities, and people living with mental illness, were happy with registering to vote and voting, but some were unable to vote in secret or were even turned away from a polling station.

Barriers included not being able to understand wording on election forms, not knowing they could ask for a tactile voting device and poor lighting or lack of space inside the polling station.

Some were unaware they could bring someone with them to the polling station to help them or that polling station staff could assist.

The commission’s report ‘Elections for everyone’ will be submitted as its response to a government review.

Electoral Commission chair Sir John Holmes said: 'It is disappointing that we continue to hear about people with disabilities being unable to vote in secret, or even turned away from a polling station.

'This cannot be allowed to happen in our democracy. Voters with a disability should have access to the right support to ensure they can cast their vote with confidence.

'The commission will step up its work with the UK’s governments, disability organisations and everyone involved in running elections to ensure there are no barriers to voting.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Part Time Finance Administrator

Essex County Council
Up to £25081.00 per annum + Pro Rata
Part Time Finance AdministratorPermanent, Part Time£25,081 per annum, full time equivalentLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior Customer Services Adviser (Housing Repairs

Mansfield District Council
£28,598 - £33,699 per annum
Mansfield is a town of towns at the centre of things in Nottinghamshire - a place of many strong connections Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Mansfield District Council

No Wrong Door Deputy Manager

North Yorkshire Council
From £47,181 up to £51,356 per annum pro rata
We’re looking for a passionate, driven, and dynamic professional to join our management team within our innovative No Wrong Door (NWD) service. Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Senior Resource Centre Worker

North Yorkshire Council
£34,434 - £38,220 per annum pro rata
You will work closely with families and other professionals to ensure that you have sound knowledge of the children you are caring for Morton on Swale, Northallerton
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Social Worker

North Yorkshire Council
£38,220 - £42,839 per annum, pro rata
Our Family Assessment and Support Teams you will work with a range of children and their families, carers and networks. Selby, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner