Stop using schools as polling stations Post Reply

[SB1]

The school my children attend close when it is Election Day, it will close twice in May to become a polling station. I believe councils need to stop using schools as polling stations, it interrupts our children’s educations, affect parents sorting out childcare and the school and teachers planning. I have set up a government petition asking the government to change the law, if you agree please support me. Here is the link , https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/244383.

[chorister]

Shock horror, facility owned and paid for by the public used occasionally for vital public function.  Just be grateful that you live in a democracy.

[vsim1980]

The area I live in has 3 schools within a 15 minute walk all closed as stations. There are other facilities which could be used for the same purpose. As a single mum working full time (NHS midwife) I find these random ad hoc days really difficult especially when our Rota has been done several months in advance and I’ve then got to find an extra £60 for the data childcare. Yes I’m grateful for living in a democracy but sadly I don’t have the luxury of being able to afford extra childcare for these days.

[coldatchristmas]

I agree with VSIM1980 what's wrong with using public facilities that are already open like libraries? Job centres? Polling usually only happens in one room of a school so it wouldn't disrupt too much and others wouldn't have to take time off work or pay for childcare which isn't insignificant.