Voting if you have a disability or sight problem

This page outlines the resources and support available to make sure electors' needs are met.

Everyone has the right to vote independently and in secret. West Berkshire Council works to remove barriers and support all voters. The Electoral Services team regularly reviews processes and engages with the community to improve accessibility.

For additional support or to request specific equipment, please contact us before polling day to allow enough time for your request to be considered:

vote@westberks.gov.uk
01635 519464

Polling station accessibility

Most of our polling stations provide a range of support, including:

wheelchair access and ramps where required
low-level polling booths for wheelchair users
tactile voting devices, large print ballot papers and magnifiers to support voters with sight impairments
pencil grips for easier handling
seating for anyone unable to stand for long periods
electors are permitted to bring along their own equipment to assist them, such as coloured overlays, or accessibility apps on their mobile devices to read information
assistance dogs are welcome

Polling staff, wearing 'here to help' badges or lanyards, can explain the voting process, demonstrate equipment, or read out the ballot paper.

You may bring a trusted companion aged 18 or over to assist you. They will be asked to complete a short form and will then be permitted to help you in the polling booth if needed.

Other ways to vote

If you prefer not to vote in person, you can apply for:

postal voting
proxy voting (someone voting on your behalf)

You can find information about postal and proxy voting here.

Guides for voters with a learning disability

My Vote My Voice is a campaign encouraging people with learning disabilities and autism to vote. They have produced a range of easy read guides on voting, what councils do and how to get the most from talking to your councillor.

Guides specific to voting include: