VOTING in the UK’s 2019 general election is well underway with just hours to go until polls close.
The results will be announced bright and early on Friday morning and with the vote tipped to be a close call, every vote counts. Here’s everything you need to know about where to find your nearest polling station and how long you’ve got left.
What time do polling stations close?
Polling stations opened at 7am today and will close at 10 pm.
Your local polling station is usually a public building or local hall.
You will have been sent a polling card with details of when and where to vote.
Where is my nearest polling station?
If you are registered to vote you should have received a polling card in the post.
The card tells you the address ofyour nearest polling station, usually with a map.
You cannot vote at a different polling station so check in case your nearest has moved since the last election.
If you have lost your polling card, don’t worry – you can still vote without it.
Your local council will be able to tell you where to go to cast your ballot.
How do I vote at the polling station?
When you get to the polling station, give your name and address to the staff.
You’ll be given a ballot paper with a list of options of the candidates standing for election.
If you live in Northern Ireland you’ll need to take ID with you – for instance, a passport or driving licence.
Is it too late to register to vote in the General Election?
Yes, the deadline passed on November 26, meaning if you did not register by then you cannot vote on Thursday.
Polling station rules
Every polling station has rules on how you cast your vote and behave when in the polling station:
- You must bring ID to the polling station
- Selfies are frowned upon as they risk giving away what someone else voted, which is illegal
- People are permitted to spoil their ballot as a protest, however they wont be counted
- It is illegal to openly share how anyone else voted
- You are not allowed to photograph the ballot paper you receive at the polling station
- Animals, apart from guide dogs, are usually not allowed inside a polling station
- There is no law against wearing political clothing or a banner in when you go to vote
