Everything you need to feel confident, prepared and ready for polling day.
Whether you’re new to polling or an experienced member of the team, you’ll find everything you need here to prepare for your role.
Explore the information, complete your training, watch the videos and test your knowledge – and come back whenever you need a refresher.
Your polling day starts here
For this election we are using the Electoral Commission’s official handbook rather than our own Edinburgh bespoke one.
Please use this handbook as your main source of guidance. Where local arrangements or Edinburgh specific information apply please check this website for details or contact your elections administrator.
You will need to complete electronic polling online learning before attending your face to face training.
This learning will introduce you to the electronic polling equipment before training and the day of poll.
Click on the polling tab below and then polling staff training tab for access
Be prepared and feel confident on the day. Get familiar with the voting process, supporting voters, accessibility and your key responsibilities.
Click on the polling tab below for further information
Polling – everything you need to know about working in a polling station, e.g. opening the poll, the voting process, accessibility and closing the poll.
Every voter should be able to cast their vote safely, confidently and independently. Your role is important in making sure polling runs smoothly and that every voter receives the help and support they need.
If you’re unsure – STOP and ASK
Thank you for being part of the Edinburgh Elections team.
The Corresponding Number List also known as CNL is given to each polling station. The pages are split into two columns of 50 and details the ballot paper numbers that you have been given on each page in numerical order.
The process of using the CNL is as follows:
The polling staff handbook is now online. Access is through a link at the top of the page.
This handbook is designed to assist polling station staff working at the Scottish Parliament election on 7 May.
It describes the procedures to be followed and how to deal with any issues that may arise
Not just a skim – pay particular attention to the 12 step voting process, tendered paper process and accessibility procedures.
Make sure you know where your polling place is and set your alarms you need to be at your polling place for no later than 6.15am
Check your emails for your letter of appointment you will need this to show the Senior Presiding Officer on your arrival at your polling place. Photo ID would be acceptable if you cannot locate your email.
Ensure you take sufficient food and drink to last the whole of polling day, you cannot leave the polling place while the poll is open
Polling place temperatures vary considerably they may be ward or cold and draughty. Consider wearing layers of clothing, a blanket / cushion, maybe even a hot water bottle.