In the worst areas, polling stations have been moved to locations that are more accessible and far more authorities have made a real effort to provide access to existing premises.
However, physical access to polling stations will continue to remain a problem, especially as the attitude of some local authorities is that they have no choice in where polling stations are situated.
There is also a tendency to shift the blame: ‘it’s not our job to make schools, community halls, chapels etc. accessible’. This begs the question somewhat as all those buildings are covered by the Disability Discrimination Act.
A range of people, including blind and visually impaired people, may receive assistance with voting. However, you still have to satisfy the presiding officer that you need assistance and that your companion is a ‘qualified person’. You will need to ensure that your companion has with them a written declaration.
All polling stations have to display a large print version of the ballot paper. However, this doesn’t mean you can vote using alternative formats - although blind or partially sighted people can use ‘a device’ to vote (presumably, they mean a magnifying glass).
Disability Wales survey - As in previous elections, we will be monitoring accessibility. Download the survey form and let us know what you think, not just about access but also the attitudes of staff in polling stations. Send it back to us as soon after the election as you can. Or you can email us with your comments.
Disability Wales, Wernddu Court, Caerphilly Business Park, Van Road, Caerphilly CF83 3ED
Tel: 029 2088 7325
Fax: 029 2088 8702
info@dwac.demon.co.uk
