The Highland Council to trial ballot paper overlay to make voting more accessible

2nd June 2025

In a recent survey of blind and partially sighted people, only a quarter feel that the current system allows them to vote independently and in secret. We want to change that.

The Highland Council is trialling a new tactile aid, called a ballot paper overlay during the Ward 6, Cromarty Firth and Ward 10 Eilean a' Cheò by-elections. This is a simple, cost-effective cardboard template which is placed over a ballot paper. The overlay has cut out areas which match up with the voting boxes on the ballot paper. There are braille and embossed areas next to each voting box which help the user find their way around the ballot paper. it can easily be separated from the ballot paper, after voting, to maintain secrecy.

When used alongside an audio reading of the ballot paper, the overlay can act as a self-service solution for blind and partially sighted voters to vote independently and in secret.

Returning Officer, Derek Brown said: "I am delighted that we will be trialling the ballot paper overlay when voters in Wards 6 and 10 go to the polls on Thursday 19 June. When everyone can cast their vote freely and confidently, we all move closer to a fairer, more representative society. Accessible voting isn't just a right—it's a powerful reminder that every person matters, and every vote shapes the future we share."

The Highland Council is trialling this aid in advance of the Scottish Parliament elections to provide voter feedback and raise awareness of this new accessibility aid. There are other aids available in the polling station, including magnifiers and large print ballot paper copies, staff are there are support you when you vote.

If you, or someone you support needs assistance or information about what we can do to support you when vote in a polling station, please contact the Elections Team election@highland.gov.uk or visit Local Government By-election | Local Government Elections | The Highland Council
https://www.highland.gov.uk/info/799/elections_and_voting/803/local_government_elections/2