Visually impaired voters in Tower Hamlets will have access to a new device designed to assist them with casting their ballot in upcoming elections. The McGonagall Reader, an audio and tactile voting assistance tool, was highlighted as a key new initiative during a recent General Purposes Committee meeting.
The McGonagall Reader is an audio tactile device that allows the elector to put on headphones and press buttons. The device will read out each candidate on the ballot paper, their order on the paper, and then allow the elector to mark their vote. This is considered an enhancement and is the preferred choice for the RNIB.
Tower Hamlets has purchased 21 McGonagall Readers, with the intention of having one for every ward. Inspectors will be available to assist if a ward is busier than others, and voters have been asked to contact the council ahead of polling day if they require the device at a specific time.
All polling station inspectors will be trained on how to use the McGonagall Reader to assist voters.
The McGonagall Reader is a new device being introduced for the upcoming elections. It was developed following threats of court action in 2024 against two London authorities due to the lack of audio, visual, and touch screen voting devices for people with impaired sight or who are blind.
The McGonagall Reader is part of a broader effort to support visually impaired constituents. Robert Curtis, Head of Electoral Services, noted that while many visually impaired individuals opt for postal votes, the council is ensuring comprehensive support is available at polling stations.
Further details on council initiatives can be found in the Public reports pack for the General Purposes Committee.
