Voting by post or proxy

 

Changes to Postal Voting Rules

 

The maximum length of time a voter can hold a postal vote changed following the Elections Act 2022, from indefinitely to a maximum of three years. The expiry date is now the third 31st January after the postal vote was approved.

The Elections Team have now completed the annual reapplication exercise for 2025-2026 having contacted all affected electors by email and/or letter. In those cases where a new application for a postal vote was not received by 31 January 2026, the elector has had their postal vote cancelled and a confirmation letter has been posted to them during the first week of February 2026.

If you have received a letter advising your postal vote has been cancelled, please don't panic - you are able to make a new application via the button below at any time. 

 

APPLY FOR A POSTAL VOTE 

 

Alternatively, email elections@southderbyshire.gov.uk or speak to a member of the Electoral Services team on: 01283 595875 / 595728 / 595723 if you would like us to send you a paper application form in the post.

There are no scheduled elections in South Derbyshire in 2026, so there is no immediate urgency to apply for a new postal vote, but you are advised not to leave it until the last minute, ahead of the Local Elections in May 2027.

 

Voting by proxy

 

A proxy vote is when you appoint another registered elector to attend and vote on your behalf at the polling station on election day.

The latest you can apply for a proxy vote is six working days before an election. In cases where there is an unforeseen illness after the six-day deadline, applications can be made up to 5pm on election day.

You can apply to vote by proxy for:

  • a particular election only (a poll held on a specific date)
  • a definite or indefinite period (for overseas or service personnel electors)
  • a definite or indefinite period (due to disability, employment or service)

You can apply to vote by proxy online by clicking the button below:

 

APPLY FOR A PROXY VOTE 

For further information contact: elections@southderbyshire.gov.uk or speak to a member of the Electoral Services team on: 01283 595875 / 595728 / 595723