Vote by proxy

Proxy voting is where you choose someone you trust (a proxy) to vote for you because you are unable to do so yourself. 

You must tell us why you need to vote by proxy. Reasons could include illness, disability, holiday or work arrangements.

For the security of your proxy vote, by law all applicants are required to give their signature and date of birth. Without these, your application will not be allowed.

The proxy either casts the proxy vote at the elector’s polling station, or by post.

Apply to vote by proxy

There are different application forms for a proxy vote, depending on the reason you wish to apply.

Single election proxy vote

You can apply for a proxy vote: 

• for one election

Your proxy can vote on your behalf in a single election if you’re unable to go to a polling station for a particular election, for example because you are away on holiday.

An application for a single election does not need to be supported by another person.

Permanent proxy votes

Your proxy can vote on your behalf permanently if:

• you have a physical incapacity
• you are an overseas voter
• you are a crown servant or a member of Her Majesty's Armed Forces
• your employment or studying means that you are unable to go to a polling station on the day of an election

An application for a permanent proxy must be supported by a doctor, employer or course tutor, depending on the reason why you are applying.

The deadline to apply for a new proxy vote is 5pm, 6 working days before an election.

Download and complete the relevant application form on the Electoral Commission website. 

Your application can be:

• returned by hand or post to the Electoral Registration Officer, Town Hall, Katharine Street, Croydon CR9 1DE 
• scanned and emailed to electoral.services@croydon.gov.uk

Proxy voting by post

You must already have a proxy vote in place before your proxy can apply to cast that vote by post. 

To find out more information regarding applications for a postal proxy vote please email electoral.services@croydon.gov.uk

Cancel or amend your proxy vote 

To cancel or amend an existing proxy vote, email electoral.services@croydon.gov.uk for advice.

Any changes or cancellations must be made by 5pm, 11 working days before an election.