Guidance for Local Returning Officers administering a Police and Crime Commissioner election in England and Wales

Count staff should arrive at the times agreed by you in advance and should check the count stationery and equipment is present, using our checklist to assist. You should ensure that staff are checked in and that you brief them as necessary to ensure smooth delivery of the count.

You must have taken reasonable steps to begin counting the votes as soon as practicable after the close of poll.1  

At stand-alone polls, you do not have to wait until you have completed the verification, before you can start counting the votes.