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Tips for proof checking

Guidance to support your staff with proof checking election materials should include instructions to check that:

  • all details are spelt correctly
  • electors’ names and addresses are accurate and match the electoral register / absent voting lists
  • materials being sent to electors are correct for them (e.g. postal proxies are being sent postal proxy poll cards)
  • the correct deadlines are included where relevant (e.g. for postal/proxy applications on poll cards)
  • where a form is prescribed, that it meets the prescribed requirements 

The GLRO will send you the Constituency Assembly member election ballot paper proofs for checking and approval.

For the ballot paper, you should also check that: 

  • the directions for printing have been followed
  • the official mark and unique identifying mark are correct
  • the ballot paper includes the details of all validly nominated candidates for the constituency; including that:
    • candidate names (or commonly used name(s) where relevant) are correct
    • all addresses and relevant areas are correct
    • where relevant, party names, descriptions and emblems are correct and as registered on the Commission’s register of political parties
    • instructions at the top of each ballot paper match the legislative requirements

The contents of the postal vote pack are prescribed and you should ensure that all the relevant details have been included on those materials. You should also check that the postal voting statement includes: 

  • the correct ballot paper number(s) are printed
  • the voting instructions are the correct ones for the electoral area
Last updated: 19 March 2026