Friday January 2nd 2026
Election ballot box
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Scottish Borders Council is balloting public opinion ahead of this year’s Scottish Parliament election.
The election is planned to be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, and will elect 129 members to the Scottish Parliament.
The council’s returning officer and Elections team are looking for input on how they can ensure elections are accessible, inclusive and welcoming to all.
It is recognised that people with disabilities – including those experiencing sight loss, deafness, mobility challenges, and other access needs – may face barriers when exercising their right to vote.
SBC’s responsibility is to listen, learn, and act to remove those barriers wherever possible.
An SBC spokesperson said: “We are beginning a programme of engagement to better understand your experiences and to work together on improvements. To do this effectively, we want to hear directly from you about how you would like to engage with us – whether through in-person sessions, digital meetings, or visits to your groups so we can hear about your experiences directly.
“What changes or support would make voting easier and more accessible for you – from the physical environment of polling stations, to information formats, communication support, and any other aspects of the voting process.”
The aim is to ensure accessibility remains at the heart of how elections are delivered in the Scottish Borders.
The spokesperson added: “Your voices are essential in shaping a voting experience that works for everyone. We want to build a partnership where accessibility is not an afterthought, but a central part of our planning and delivery.
“Together, we can ensure that elections across the Scottish Borders are fair, inclusive, and accessible to all.”
If you would like to take part in this engagement, email elections@scotborders.gov.uk, telephone 01835 826556 or write to SBC at: The Returning Officer, Council Headquarters, Newtown St Boswells, Melrose, TD6 0SA
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