How to vote
Contents
Ways to vote
You can vote in an election:
- in person at a polling station
- by post
- by proxy
When you first register to vote, you will be registered to vote in person by default.
Vote at a polling station
You must show a valid photo ID or the free voter ID, known as a Voter Authority Certificate, to vote at a polling station. You cannot vote in person without this.
Only certain photo ID is accepted. Check what photo ID you need
Polling stations are open 7am to 10pm on election day.
Find your polling station
Ward and polling district maps
Vote by post
If you applied to vote by post, post your ballot as soon as possible to avoid delays. We’ll need to receive it by 10pm on election day for it to count.
If you still have your ballot on election day, you can bring it to your polling station or Woolwich Town Hall. You’ll need to fill out a short form which staff will give you.
Postal voter renewal
Due to new elections law, voters must now renew their postal vote every 3 years.
If you applied for a postal vote more than 3 years ago, you'll need to reapply by 31 January 2026 to keep it.
We'll contact voters who need to renew. If we've contacted you, please help us reduce costs by reapplying as soon as possible.
You can renew your postal vote online or ask for a paper form.
Vote by proxy
If you are suddenly unable to vote in person on election day, you can request an emergency proxy.
Find out more about proxy voting and apply for an emergency proxy vote
This is when someone else votes for you. This person is your proxy.
Both you and your proxy must be registered to vote. Your proxy does not have to live in Royal Greenwich.
Your proxy will be sent a proxy poll card, telling them where and when to vote. You must let your proxy know which candidate or party you want them to vote for on your behalf.