The Highland Council is taking an important step towards making voting more accessible for everyone.
A new tactile aid, known as a ballot paper overlay, will be trialled during the upcoming by-elections in Ward 6 Cromarty Firth and Ward 10 Eilean a’ Cheò.
This simple but effective tool is designed to help blind and partially sighted voters cast their ballot independently and in secret.
It is made from cardboard and is placed over the ballot paper, with cut-out areas that line up with the voting boxes.
Each box is marked with braille and raised areas, helping voters find their way around the paper with ease.
Once the vote is cast, the overlay is easily removed to maintain the secrecy of the ballot.
Used alongside an audio version of the ballot paper, the overlay offers a self-service solution, giving blind and partially sighted voters more confidence and control when voting.
Derek Brown, Returning Officer, welcomed the move.
He 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 is not just a right, it is a powerful reminder that every person matters and every vote shapes the future we share.”
The Council is running this trial ahead of the next Scottish Parliament elections, with the aim of gathering feedback from voters and raising awareness about the new accessibility aid.
Other support remains available at polling stations, including magnifiers and large print versions of the ballot paper.
Polling staff will also be on hand to offer assistance as needed.
If you, or someone you know, would like more information or support ahead of voting, you can contact the Elections Team at election@highland.gov.uk or visit the Local Government Elections section on the Highland Council website.