Safety procedures in place for May election polling stations in Calderdale

Calderdale Council is encouraging people to apply for a postal vote, but those who choose to attend their polling station on the day will find some familiar important COVID-19 safety routines in place.

This year people will be voting in the borough elections, for the first ever West Yorkshire Mayor, and some will have a vote in town or parish council elections.

The council’s Chief Executive, Electoral Registration Officer and Returning Officer at Calderdale Council, Robin Tuddenham, said the authority is working hard to make sure that polling stations are safe places to work and vote.

“You can expect many of the measures you’ve become used to in shops and banks over recent months, such as using hand sanitiser, socially distanced queues and the wearing of face coverings.

“Polling stations may be set out differently, with one-way routes and limits on the number of people inside at any one time.

“Polling staff will be sat behind screens and hand sanitiser will be available on entrance and exit.

“Voters are encouraged to bring their own pen or pencil, but pencils will be available if needed.

“Regular cleaning will also take place, including touch points and polling booths,” he said.

Mr Tuddenham said the council appreciated people might feel apprehensive and outlined different ways in which people could vote.

“We know that the voting process will feel different this year and some may be concerned about visiting or working at a polling station.

“We’re doing everything we can to make sure that the process is as safe as possible, but you also have options to apply to vote by post or by proxy instead if you prefer,” he said.

Information about how to apply for a postal vote or a proxy vote is aviailable by visiting https://www.calderdale.gov.uk/v2/council/elections-and-voting/how-vote – at the council’s website.