Running electoral registration - Scotland

Assisting applicants to provide a suitable photograph

It may be that an applicant needs assistance with providing a photograph with their paper application.
 
The types of assistance required could include:

  • taking a photo of themselves 
  • understanding the specific requirements of a photo
  • uploading a photo to send by email 

You could advise an applicant to deliver their paper application by hand and make arrangements to take their photo when they deliver the form.
 
You will need to provide an area for these photos to be taken, with a plain background. In the case of electors who may need to remove a face covering for the purpose of the photo, you will also need to consider how you can provide:

  • a private area
  • a member of staff the individual is comfortable to remove any covering in front of 
  • a mirror for the replacement of face coverings following a photo being taken

If the applicant knows someone who can help them by taking a photo, such as a family member, carer, or support worker, you could advise them to deliver the paper application by hand, post or electronically by email and then to send a scanned copy or digital image of the photo by email. It is important that any photo or file clearly indicates the applicant to whom it belongs.

Last updated: 17 March 2023