Working in a polling station
At each election, we have polling stations around the borough. Polling station staff are responsible for ensuring everyone who is entitled to vote is able to and that the correct procedures are followed.
On election day, staff must have their polling station set up and ready to open by 7am. They are expected to work through the day until after the polls close at 10pm and the polling station is packed away.
Working in a polling station is not subject to the European Working Time Directive. This means there are no guaranteed breaks during the day and staff cannot leave the station during the day.
Presiding Officer
Presiding Officers are responsible for the management of the polling station and supervising the work of the poll clerks.
Duties include:
- Attending training and briefing sessions
- Running the polling station, ensuring the secrecy of the ballot and complying with the Returning Officer’s instructions
- Collecting ballot box and equipment before polling day for use on the day, and transport it to the count venue at the close of poll
- Liaising with the polling station key holder to confirm arrangements for the opening and closing of the venue
- Instructing and supervising poll clerks when marking the electoral register and issuing ballot papers
- Maintaining the secrecy of the ballot and ensuring voters can cast their vote in secret, free from influence
- Opening and closing the polling station on time, ensuring the layout of the polling station is suitable
- Being polite and professional when dealing with all visitors to the polling station and remaining impartial at all times
- Monitoring the activities of candidates and tellers outside the polling place
- Accounting for all ballot papers issued and unissued, completing all polling station paperwork throughout the day and once the poll has closed
This position requires good knowledge of the voting system and procedures. Previous experience of working in a polling station on at least two occasions is required.
Failure to attend and successfully complete any training could lead to an appointment being rescinded.
Read more about applying to work at an election.
Poll clerk
Poll clerks assist the Presiding Officer with the running of a polling station throughout the day.
Duties include:
- Attending training
- Following the instructions of the Presiding Officer to set up the polling station, including displaying notices and setting up polling booths
- Maintaining the secrecy of the ballot and ensuring voters can cast their vote in secret, free from influence
- Marking the register of electors and issuing ballot papers, ensuring electors place their ballot papers in the ballot box
- Being polite and professional when dealing with all visitors to the polling station and remaining impartial at all times
- Packing down polling station equipment at the close of poll
Failure to attend and successfully complete any training could lead to an appointment being rescinded.
