Working at the count
After voting closes, we must then verify that all the ballot papers in the ballot box match the number issued to each polling station. The ballot papers are then counted for each candidate.
This is done at Tipton Sports Academy. This year, the verification and count will take place from 10am on Friday 3 May 2024.
We have a number of roles available at the count, which is where we verify and count the votes and sort out the equipment that has been returned from the polling stations.
If you work for Sandwell Council and you work at the count on Friday 3 May 2024, you will be given a day's special leave from your usual job to carry out your counting duties. You will also be paid for your work at the count.
Training
Watch our training video for chief counters.
Count assistants
Count assistants count the marked ballot papers. First they check the amount returned from each polling station, then sort into piles for each candidate.
We employ several hundred count staff to count the votes, working in teams, each with supervisors.
Full training is given beforehand and a briefing before the count. Refreshments are also provided during the count.
Please watch the video of instructions for count assistants.
Download the job description for Count Assistants.
Count assistants for unused ballot papers
Count assistants for unused ballot papers count the unused ballot papers returned from the polling stations. We have to account for all of the ballot papers given to the polling stations, whether they have been used by voters or not.
Staff count the books of ballot papers and record a figure for each polling station and then box up the ballot papers to go into storage.
Sign up to work at the count
If you’ve previously worked at an election count for Sandwell Council, we already have your details and the elections team will be in touch with you about your role.
If you would like to work at the 2024 count and you have not done this before, please fill in this form to let us know you are interested.