Today the UK will head to the polls to vote in the 2019 general election , and choose a new government for the next five years.
The results of this election will have a huge impact on the future of the country, and it's important that everyone has the opportunity to cast their vote.
If you are registered to vote but will be unable to make it to the polling station, there may still be the opportunity to apply for an emergency proxy vote. This means that somebody else can vote on your behalf.
Here's everything you need to know:
When can you get an emergency proxy vote?
You can apply for an emergency proxy vote if you have a medical emergency, or if you have a previously unforeseen work commitment that will prevent you from getting to your polling station .
The medical emergency must apply to you - it is not possible to get an emergency proxy vote because a family member has had an accident or fallen ill.
The application for an emergency proxy vote on medical grounds must be supported by a social worker or a registered health professional, whether that's a nurse, a doctor, a psychologist or an optician.
If you have an unexpected work commitment that means you will not be able to get to the polling station, you can also apply for an emergency proxy vote.
In this case, your application will have to be supported by your employer, or if you're self-employed, an adult who is not your spouse or a close family member.
You have until 5pm on polling day today to make the application - after that, it's too late.
How do you apply for an emergency proxy vote?
You can find the form to apply for an emergency proxy vote on medical grounds here , or if you have an unforeseen work commitment, you can find the form here .
Once you have completed the form, you must return it to your local electoral registration office, which you can find by entering your postcode on the Electoral Commission website .
It must arrive with your local office by 5pm on polling day - today.
What time do polls open?
Polls opened at 7am this morning, and will close at 10pm.
As long as you are in the queue at the polling station by 10pm, you will be able to cast your vote.
