Voting by post

If you are unable to visit a polling station in person on the day of an election or referendum, you can set up a postal vote.

Apply for a postal vote

You can  apply for a postal vote:

• for a single election on a specific date
• for a specific period
• permanently

Application forms can be sent:   

• by post to Electoral Services, Town Hall, Bournemouth, BH2 6DY
• by email to   elections@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

Completing and returning your postal vote

When voting by post, you should:

• complete your ballot paper in secret
• complete the postal voting statement
• put the ballot and statement in the envelopes provided
• seal the envelope yourself

Post your ballot back as quickly as possible to make sure it’s counted.

If you’re too late to post your ballot paper back, you can hand it to your local polling station by 10pm on polling day.

Changing where your postal vote is sent

You’ll need to change where your postal vote is sent if you:

• move house
• will be away from home in the run up to election day (eg on holiday)

Either way, just make a new postal vote application.

How to cancel your postal vote

If you are currently a postal voter and wish to cancel your postal vote so that you can vote in person, contact us. Send your full name and address and state that you no longer wish to vote by post:

• by email elections@bcpcouncil.gov.uk 
• by post to Electoral Services, Town Hall, Bournemouth, BH2 6DY

How to complete your postal ballot papers

This short video explains what you should receive in your postal pack, how to complete the paperwork and how to return your postal vote to us. 

Can't see the video? Watch it on YouTube.

For written instructions please see the back of envelope B or the back of the Postal Voting Statement, which you will receive in your postal voting pack.