Working in a polling station

At each election, we have polling stations located in the London Borough of Hounslow and 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 and 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 and due to this there is no guaranteed breaks during the day, and staff are not permitted to 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
Run the polling station, ensuring the secrecy of the ballot and complying with the Returning Officer’s instructions

Collect ballot box and equipment before polling day for use on the day, and transport it to the count venue at the close of poll
Liaise with the polling station key holder to confirm arrangements for the opening and closing of the venue
Instruct and supervise poll clerks when marking the electoral register and issuing ballot papers
Maintain the secrecy of the ballot and ensure voters can cast their vote in secret, free from influence
Open and close the polling station on time, ensuring the layout of the polling station is suitable

Be polite and professional when dealing with all visitors to the polling station and remaining impartial at all times
Monitor the activities of candidates and tellers outside the polling place.
Account for all ballot papers issued and unissued, completing all polling station paperwork throughout the day and once the poll has closed

Previous experience of working in a polling station, on at least two occasions is required, as this is a position that requires good knowledge of the voting system and procedures.

Failure to attend and successfully complete any training could lead to an appointment being rescinded.

Poll Clerk

Poll Clerks are appointed to assist the Presiding Officer with the running of a polling station throughout the day.

Duties include:

Attending training
Follow the instructions of the Presiding Officer to set up the polling station, including displaying notices and setting up polling booths

Maintain the secrecy of the ballot and ensure voters can cast their vote in secret, free from influence
Mark the register of electors and issue ballot papers, ensuring electors place their ballot papers in the ballot box
Be polite and professional when dealing with all visitors to the polling station and remaining impartial at all times
Pack down polling station equipment at the close of poll

Failure to attend and successfully complete any training could lead to an appointment being rescinded.