At election time these organisations can be used to undertake surveys of how disabled voters found the process and to look at polling sites and identify problems. Getting separate and independent help and advice to look at these issues will assist the electoral manager and allow problems identified to be put right in time for the next elections. These surveys identified two main areas of concern. The first related to the physical conditions in many polling sites, which caused problems to disabled voters in terms of difficulties of access, difficulties in understanding the explanations given by staff, difficulties in voting due to the size of the print on the ballot papers and instructions, and the poor design of the voting booths. Ballot papers and instructions can be printed oversize to enable partially sighted voters to make their choice.
Many electoral laws provide for assistance to be given to the voter.
Another option is for the voter to be assisted by a family member or friend who marks the ballot paper in accordance with the instructions given. A further variation of this arrangement is when the poll workers keep a list of all voters whose votes are marked with assistance from a poll worker or family member. Specially designed voting booths will also assist electors. Where there are large numbers of voters who find difficulty with the process, visits can be arranged to groups in advance of the poll so that the process can be explained without pressure and with ample time taken to ensure all the electors concerned know how to vote. Running simulated polls is particularly helpful in allowing this type of elector to become familiar with the questions asked and procedures.