Observing elections and referendums
What do electoral observers do?
To improve transparency around democracy and UK elections, we offer people the chance to observe:
- the poll
- the vote count and verification
- the issue and receipt of ballot papers
Observing is an unpaid role.
Who can be an observer?
Most people can apply to become an observer.
However, you must be:
- over 16
- politically impartial. While you are an observer, you can’t be publicly linked to a political party, candidate or cause
Why observe?
Though observing is unpaid, there are many reasons to become an electoral observer.
By observing, you can:
- learn how elections actually work
- improve public trust in the process
- assure yourself and others of the integrity of UK democracy
- develop valuable experience relevant to politics, law, human rights, or public service
- improve your understanding of best practice as an electoral administrator of a different authority