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Case studies
Disabled people
This section features projects which aim to improve disabled people's access to the democratic process.
- Capability Scotland: virtual polling station »
- South Tyneside: visual impairments »
- Renfrewshire Valuation Joint Board: simplified voter registration form »
Don't forget to look at our toolbox and how to... files for resources on promoting public awareness.
Capability Scotland: virtual polling station
To help disabled voters vote in the 2005 general election, the disability organisation Capability Scotland set up a virtual polling station.
The virtual polling station aims to demystify the voting process by transporting users into a polling station so they could see exactly what would happen if they visited the polling station on election day. It takes people through the different steps from entering the polling station to casting their ballot. It shows people how to obtain and fill out their ballot paper, what help should be available to them and how to get it, explains what people are voting for, and finally casting their vote by putting the ballot paper in the ballot box.
Their website also has information on how to vote as well as web-links to the 32 local councils in Scotland and to other disability organisations.
Useful tools: See www.vote.org.uk
South Tyneside: Visual impairments
By working closely with the council's sensory impairment team, electoral administrators in South Tyneside are able to send out tailored canvass information to people in the area with visual impairments. This information includes:
- A large print letter explaining the annual canvass and an A3 sample of the registration form. This letter also offers a home visit for anyone needing assistance to fill out the form.
- A large print version of the Electoral Commissions Who has my personal details leaflet (see our Do Politics catalogue for information on ordering this leaflet).
The council also holds a list of people who require information in audio or Braille format, sending out the appropriate format accordingly, and places promotional advertisements in a local disability magazine.
Renfrewshire Valuation Joint Board: Simplified voter registration process
Working with a local veterans home Renfrewshires Electoral Registration Office have changed their registration process to match the homes administrative system, making it easier for residents to register and apply to vote by post.
As the home is operated as a series of houses electors are now registered as a resident in the appropriate house.
Electoral registration staff work with the administrator of each house to update registrations. They also provide a special postal vote application which can be completed, on behalf of residents who are unable to do so themselves, by approved members of staff.
