All you need to know for today’s big vote

Elections are taking place in Newcastle Borough today – with all 44 seats up for grabs. Here we take a look at the rules at polling stations as well as which locations are open for residents to have their say...

TODAY, residents across Newcastle have their say on who they want to represent them on the borough authority.

All 44 seats on Newcastle Borough Council are up for grabs, with more than 100 candidates hoping to win a place representing one of 21 wards.

Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm for voting.

If you had planned to attend a polling station but now cannot do so for medical or work reasons you can apply for an emergency proxy vote (meaning someone you trust, such as a close relative, can cast your vote on your behalf) until 5pm today.

Ahead of the vote here’s some things you can and can’t do in a polling station:

Can I take a selfie?

No. You are not allowed to take a photo inside the polling station as it may risk the secrecy of the ballot. Save your selfie for once you are outside the polling station.

Can I bring my children?

Yes, under-18s may not be eligible to vote yet but they are allowed inside the polling station.

Can I write a message on my ballot paper or use it as a protest vote?

You can, but whether or not it will go on to be counted as a valid vote is a matter for the returning officer (the person responsible for running the election) to determine. They will have to decide if your voting intention is clear from what you have put on your ballot paper.

Can I sign my ballot

paper?

No, because this may lead to you being personally identified – breaking the secret vote rule.

Do I need to bring my polling card with me?

Most voters don’t need to bring their polling card - simply give your name and address to the poll clerk.

Can I get a fresh ballot paper if I have made a mistake?

If you have made your mark in the wrong box you must hand the ballot paper in to polling staff – it will be classed as a spoilt paper.

Then they can give you a replacement.

But if you have placed the paper with the mistake on in the ballot box, staff will not be able to give you a replacement.

Do I have to use the pencil in the polling booth to cast my vote?

No. The pencils in polling booths are handy if you don’t normally carry a pen or pencil around, but if you have a preferred piece of stationery you may use that on your ballot paper.

Can I bring someone with me if I’m disabled and need assistance to cast my vote?

Yes.

I’m a candidate in the election, can I enter the polling station?

Yes you can, but you must not disrupt voting or attempt to canvass voters inside.