The dos and don’ts of the polling station

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you will know that there’s an election on the way, due (mainly) to ongoing Brexit chaos and confusion. However, I won’t go into the politics of it, instead, I will give you some pointers on how to vote – what to do and what not to do when you ultimately get into that polling station on December 12th.

So, who can vote? The answer is anybody who is over 18, British, Irish, or qualifying Commonwealth citizens and UK residents. If you’re unsure which category you fall into, it’s best to have a look at the government website for more information. The most important thing is that you can only vote if you are registered: if you aren’t registered, then you could stop reading this article now, as registration has closed. Students can register at both their term-time and home address, but only vote once in general elections. If you’ve registered in both places and you’re unsure where your vote will have the most impact, there are some handy tools on the internet to help you.

It is important to remember that you can’t wear party political clothing in a polling station

You don’t have to tell anyone who you’re voting for: after all, it is a secret ballot. But, if you think that chatting to your friends or family about it would help, then feel free to. It’s important to remember that whilst you can discuss your politics with friends and family, try not to let them influence your views. Sometimes, it’s hard to not be affected by their views, but it is your vote, not theirs. Listen to what they have to say, ask them questions, and debate hot topics. But, try to form your opinion independently. Voting is tribal: often students just vote in the same way as their families or contemporaries, but it’s important to know why you are supporting the party you vote for. Make sure you get some time to think about who you’d like to support: which policies do you agree (or disagree) with most? Which policies will impact you and those around you most? Which party leader would you like to be Prime Minister? Only you can decide who to vote for.

On Election Day (Thursday 12 December), make up your mind if you haven’t already. You can vote at any time between 7am and 10pm. If you’re going to leave it late, try to arrive before 10pm: every election there are disputes over whether those queueing at 10pm have the right to vote. It’s better to be safe than sorry and arrive in good time. If you’re not sure where your polling station is, it’ll be on the polling card you received through your letterbox in the last few weeks. You don’t have to bring the card with you to vote, so don’t worry if you’ve lost it or thrown it away: you can find out where your polling station is on the government website.

For some first-time voters, this can feel a bit underwhelming, but it’s a very important thing to do

If you’re not sure what to wear, just dress however you feel comfortable: it really doesn’t matter. Perhaps, if you feel very passionately about one party, you could dress in the party colours (blue for Conservatives, red for Labour, and so on). However, it is important to remember that you can’t wear party political clothing in a polling station – so perhaps don’t go dressed as your party’s manifesto!

Once you’re there, head up to the desk where you’ll be asked for some information by the staff, then, you’ll be given your ballot paper. If you’re wondering why you can’t see Boris Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn’s name on it, that’s because you’re voting for your local representative (Member of Parliament) and not for the Prime Minister. But your vote will influence who gets the keys to Number 10.

Voting is simple, but incredibly important

Take yourself to a booth in the polling station and use the provided pencils to mark a clear X in the box of your chosen candidate. If you aren’t satisfied with any of the candidates, you can spoil your ballot – scribble on the sheet or vote for multiple people.
Then, take your ballot paper to the big black box and slot it in. That’s it! You have exercised your democratic right. For some first-time voters, this can feel a bit underwhelming, but it’s a very important thing to do.

So, in short: decide who you support, where your polling station is and wear whatever you like! Voting is simple, but incredibly important. If you’re registered, be sure to vote on Thursday 12 December.