Scottish Borders voters are being reminded to prepare for the Scottish Parliament election on 7 May, with accessibility measures in place to ensure everyone can cast their vote independently.
Polling stations across the Borders will be open from 7am to 10pm, and anyone who joins the queue before 10pm will still be able to vote.
Additional support for voters
Under changes introduced by the Elections Act 2022, voters who require support can now choose anyone aged 18 or over to accompany them into the polling station to help them cast their vote independently, confidently and in secret.
Voters may also ask the Presiding Officer at polling places for assistance. Presiding Officers are legally bound by the Requirement for Secrecy, ensuring every vote remains confidential.
David Robertson, Returning Officer for the Scottish Borders
has confirmed that extra measures will be taken to support voters who need adjustments: “Every voter in the Scottish Borders should be able to cast their vote independently, confidently and in secret.
"We have put comprehensive arrangements in place to ensure that anyone who needs support to vote in the election can receive it. Adjustment in place include the use of personal aids such as text-to-speech apps, braille overlays and torches or magnifiers on mobile phones.
“I would like to encourage all eligible residents to take part in the election and ensure their voice is heard.”
All polling places in the Borders have been assessed for accessibility, with mearues including:
Temporary ramps for wheelchair users or those who have difficulty with steps
- Accessible parking where possible
- Permission for assistance dogs
- Seating for voters who cannot stand for long periods
- Polling booths at wheelchair accessible height
- Clearly identifiable staff available to assist
To help voters understand the ballot papers and the voting process, every polling station will provide:
- Large print sample ballot papers
- Enlarged hand held copies of the ballot paper
- Notices explaining how to vote
- Magnifiers and pencil grips
- Additional lighting
- Tactile voting devices for blind and partially sighted voters
A new ballot paper overlay will also be available at all polling places. This cardboard template includes embossed writing, braille, and cut out squares aligned with the voting boxes. When used with an audio version of the ballot paper, it offers a fully independent voting option for blind and partially sighted voters.
Voters who require additional assistance or wish to request a reasonable adjustment ahead of polling day can contact the Election Office by emailing
elections@scotborders.gov.uk or calling 0300 100 1800.