In the UK, there are three main ways you can vote in elections:
In person – at your local polling station on election day.
By post (postal vote) – your ballot paper is sent to you in the post so you can complete it at home and return it by mail.
By proxy – someone you trust is appointed to vote on your behalf at your polling station.
A postal vote means you don’t need to go to the polling station on election day. Instead, your ballot paper is posted to you, and you fill it in and send it back before the deadline.
Why it matters:
It’s useful if you’re away, working, or unable to get to your polling station.
You must be registered to vote and apply in advance to get a postal vote.
Updating your address on the electoral roll is important, otherwise your postal ballot might be sent to the wrong address.