Presiding Officer

Presiding Officers are responsible for the conduct of the ballot in the polling station to which they have been assigned and must have a sound knowledge of the voting procedures.

All senior staff are required to have a mobile phone with them that can be used to make and receive official phonecalls during the day of poll. 

On arrival at your polling place you should report to the Senior Presiding Officer they are normally around polling station no. 1.

Show them your letter of appointment and you will be directed to the designated polling station number that you given on your letter of appointment. You will also be given a Presiding Officer lanyard.

These are reusable so please do not write on them

Duties of a Presiding Offcer

Presiding Officers have an overall responsibility for the polling station and carry out an additional supervisory role.

Also in law, there are a number of duties that only Presiding Officers can carry out. These are:

  • requesting that a police officer remove someone from a polling station
  • asking the prescribed questions
  • limiting the number of accredited observers present at any one time

As part of the polling station team, you play a vital role in helping voters have a smooth, secure, and positive experience on polling day.

You will:

  • Follow the guidance and instructions provided by the Returning Officer during training, in the polling staff handbook, and on polling day.
  • Open and close the polling station on time, ensuring the ballot remains secure and confidential throughout the day.
  • Be responsible for all ballot papers, paperwork, and ballot box, and support and guide Polling Assistants in their duties.
  • Make sure voting procedures are followed correctly and that required records, including corresponding number lists, are accurately completed.
  • Ask voters the required statutory questions when necessary, including when requested by agents or before issuing tendered ballot papers.
  • Manage special voting procedures where required.
  • Provide appropriate support to voters with disabilities or additional needs, ensuring accessibility equipment is clearly displayed and ready to use.
  • Ensure that only children or authorised companions (who have completed the necessary declaration) accompany voters into polling booths.
  • Act on instructions from the Electoral Registration Office (ERO) regarding register updates due to clerical errors or emergency proxy applications, and direct voters to the ERO where appropriate.
  • Maintain a calm, safe, and orderly environment within the polling station.

Your role is essential in upholding the integrity of the election process and ensuring every voter can cast their vote with confidence.