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

Revenues and Benefits Administration Officer

West Northamptonshire Council
£26914 - £27781
The Revenues and Benefits Administration Officer at West Northamptonshire Council provides essential administrative support across the Revenues and Benefits team. The role involves managing emails, indexing documents, raising orders and supporting financi Northampton
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Strategic Commissioning Manager (Markets Team Manager)

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Drive real change in your community - shape the future of careDrive real change in your community - shape the future of careAt the Royal Borough of Ke England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Social Worker - Family Finding, Adoption Mid Essex

Essex County Council
£34902.0000 - £50081.0000 per annum
Social Worker - Family Finding, Adoption Mid EssexPermanent, Full Time£34,902 to £50,081 per annum Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Sheltered Housing Officer

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
£33291 - £34291 per annum
Support residents to live independently in safe, welcoming homes - making every day easier, safer and more connected.Support residents to live indepen England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Team Leader

Durham County Council
Grade 8 £32,597 - £36,363
Salary
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner