Voters heading to polling places to take part in the Scottish Parliament Election are being reassured that safety will be paramount.


Additional hygiene measures are being introduced at our polling places across North Ayrshire.
Returning Officer Craig Hatton said those wishing to cast their ballot on the day should be aware of the measures which have been introduced to keep voters and polling place staff safe.
He said: “Anyone entering a polling place should be reassured that additional hygiene and safety measures are in place.
“You may have to queue, so physical distancing must be respected and masks must be worn within the polling place."
Voters should be reassured that all polling places will have been deep cleaned prior to Polling Day. 
A Covid Compliance Officer will be on duty to assist with queue management and maintenance of social distancing.
Everyone within the polling place must wear a face covering or visor (unless medically exempt) and will be asked to observe one-way systems and keep a two-metre distance from other voters.
Voters and others entering a Polling Station must use the hand sanitiser which will be available at the entrance to each polling place and on exit.
Voters can bring their own pencil or pen to cast their votes. Single-use ballot pencils will be available.
Anyone who has Covid-19 symptoms (new continuous cough, fever, or loss of, or change in, sense of smell or taste) should not enter a polling place.
Anyone who develops symptoms, or is asked to self-isolate shortly before polling day, has up to 5pm on polling day to apply for an emergency proxy vote. This allows them to nominate someone they trust to vote on their behalf.
Voting for the Cunninghame North begins at 7am on Thursday, May 6, and polling places will remain open until 10pm.