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Declaring the result

You should ensure that all attendees are aware of the standards of behaviour expected during your announcements. 

When planning for the declaration of the results you should:

  • decide on the exact location in the venue where public announcements and declarations will take place and who will be on the platform at these times
  • ensure the platform is accessible for all those who need to get up on it
  • consider if you could make use of display boards to provide a suitable backdrop for the announcement of results
  • check any equipment you will use for the announcement before the proceedings begin
  • double-check that the result is accurate, and that it is written in the form of words for oral delivery in order to avoid any errors - you may need to repeat the declaration so that those in attendance are able to hear the detail clearly, particularly where there is noise from those attending
  • consider how you will provide media representatives in attendance with a written copy of the results at the time the announcement is made as this will help them to ensure that their transmission of figures is accurate

Declaration

You must announce, in English and Welsh:1  

  • the political parties and the names of the party list candidates 
  • the individual candidates 

who have been allocated a seat and you must also declare, in English and Welsh, that they have been elected.

Where the statement of parties and persons nominated shows a candidate’s commonly used name you may also use that commonly used name when declaring the result.2   

Once a result is declared at the count, it is final and cannot be amended. You should therefore take care to ensure that the result you declare is accurate.

However if you make an error during your oral announcement you can correct this, provided it is done immediately. 

For more information, including about the delivery of certificates to the Clerk of the Senedd, see our guidance on giving public notice after the elections.

Last updated: 18 November 2025