Elections 2026: Register to Vote
Up for election this year is the Welsh Parliament, the Scottish Parliament, many local authorities across England including some mayors.
- Check what elections are taking place in your area
- Check eligibility requirements
- Register to vote – and consider applying for a postal vote
- Make a plan
Not everywhere will have elections, and you should find out if there are any elections taking place in your area by checking here.
There are different eligibility requirements to vote in the UK, which you can check here.
In addition to eligibility requirements, you must be registered to participate in elections. You can do that here. You will be asked your national insurance number when you register – but you can still register if you do not have one.
As part of the registration process, you will be asked whether you would like a postal vote. You can also request a proxy vote – this means that you can request for someone to vote on your behalf.
Once you’ve registered, make a plan to vote. If you have applied for a postal vote, keep an eye out for the paperwork in the post. If you have a proxy vote, make sure your proxy knows how you want them to vote. If you’re going to the polling station on election day, double-check the location of your polling station.
You should get a polling card through the post a few days before the election from your local council telling you where your polling station is. If not, call the council to find out where it is.
To find out your local polling station please visit Where do I Vote?
If you’re a resident in Scotland, visit the Scottish Parliament Election Hub 2026.
Promote The Vote
BASW has published a practice guide to help social workers and social work students supporting individuals with a learning disability to vote in elections should they choose to do so. It is based on the experience of social workers in Bradford.
It covers the meaning and the value of voting, and the end-to-end process around PTV. Including feedback and good practice advice from social workers, this document encapsulates what involvement in voting looks like, and the benefit it can hold to those participating.
Download our Promote The Vote guidance here.
If you have any unanswered questions, please contact Kerri Prince, BASW’s Public and Political Affairs Lead, kerri.prince@basw.co.uk
