Residents are being invited to register to vote by post in local and regional elections this May to avoid increased waiting times at polling stations operating under coronavirus restrictions.

Thousands of people have already registered to vote securely by post – with anyone wanting to do so required to register by 5pm on 20 April. 

Elections will take place on 6 May for the Mayor of London and London Assembly, with Council by-elections in Stamford Hill West, Kings Park, Hoxton East & Shoreditch and Woodberry Down wards.

Polling stations will look different this year, with new safety rules and changes, and it may take longer than normal for residents to cast their vote. This will include: 

• Voters may have to wait in a socially distanced queue, as fewer people will be allowed inside
• Face coverings and hand sanitisation will be mandatory, with booths regularly disinfected and perspex screens installed
• Voters will be encouraged to bring their own pen or pencil

It’s easy to register to vote by post by downloading and returning the online application form, or returning the form sent to previous postal voters. Applicants can choose whether to register to vote by post in just these elections, or all elections.

Once registered, the Council is also encouraging people to ensure they post back their vote in good time, to avoid needing to take it to a polling station on Election Day.

Anyone who has tested positive for coronavirus or is self-isolating on 6 May will be able to apply for an emergency proxy vote. 

To download a form or for more information, visit the Ways to Vote page or contact electoralservices@hackney.gov.uk or 020 8356 3232. Applications close at 5pm on 20 April.