Voting in Scotland and what you need to know
We want to see Scotland become more inclusive for blind and partially sighted people over the next term of the Scottish Parliament.
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about the upcoming Scottish Parliamentary election being held on Thursday, 6th May 2021 and how you can get involved.
Read our manifesto
In October 2020 we launched our manifesto, 'A Vision for the 2020s.' which contains the key things we are asking for. These are mostly simple measures that would have a profound and far-reaching impact for blind and partially sighted people. These asks span diverse areas including education, employment, social security and improving prevention of sight loss and support for those affected by it.
Contact your local candidates
We've launched a campaign this year to get election candidates to commit to prioritising sight loss over the next parliamentary term. Help us by contacting the candidates in your parliamentary constituency by email or tweeting them using our simple and accessible e-action tool.
Hear from the main political parties
Election campaign materials are often unavailable in accessible formats but are crucial in determining what each party has to offer. As we've done previously, we've invited the political parties with representation in the Scottish Parliament to submit a 400-word statement addressed to the blind and partially sighted community.
Information on voting in this election
This election is taking place under different circumstances due to COVID-19. The Electoral Commission has produced guidance for voters which every household in Scotland will be receiving by post. It can also be downloaded below.
RNIB Scotland, Guide Dogs Scotland and Sight Scotland have also collaborated with the Electoral Commission to produce specific guidance for blind and partially sighted voters. If you would like a copy of the guidance in audio, braille or large print please email us.
What MSPs need to know
Political representatives can take often simple and easy measures to ensure their communications are more inclusive for blind and partially sighted constituents. We've created a guide covering accessible social media, sighted guiding and more.