Postal and proxy voting
Starting 31 October 2023, all absent vote applications (except for emergency proxy applications) in England, and absent vote applications for reserved polls in Scotland and Wales, require a national insurance number (NINo) or a reason for not providing one. The option to apply for an absent vote online also goes live on the same date.
Postal votes
To qualify for a postal vote you must first be registered to vote. If you intend to request a postal vote, we recommend you register to vote well in advance of the deadline, in case we need to ask you for ID to verify your identity.
If you cannot apply online, download and fill in a postal vote application form. You can return the form to us by post, in person, or email a scanned copy of the form to electoralservices@hackney.gov.uk. Electronic signatures are not acceptable but scanned versions of original signatures are.
When your vote will arrive
Postal votes to overseas destinations are sent out first. However, if you’re overseas we strongly recommend that you nominate a proxy to vote for you rather than apply for a postal vote.
Postal votes are always sent by first class post.
Vote by proxy
You can appoint someone else to cast your vote on your behalf if you have a valid reason. For example, if you are ill, are unable to get to a polling station or are abroad during the election. You will have to give a reason why you cannot vote in person and your application may need to be supported by your doctor or employer.
Electoral Registration and Elections Office
Address
Telephone
Opening times
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday – 9am to 5pm (telephone)
- Wednesday – 9am to 4pm (telephone)