Reform UK has reported alleged incidents of so-called “family voting” to police following a recent by-election, raising concerns about the integrity and secrecy of the ballot.

Party officials said they had gathered accounts suggesting that multiple members of the same household may have entered polling booths together or influenced each other’s votes, practices that are prohibited under UK electoral law.

Under British voting rules, ballots must be cast individually and in secret, with only limited exceptions for voters requiring assistance due to disability.

Electoral guidance makes clear that no individual may accompany a voter into a polling booth unless formally authorised as a companion under strict conditions.

The party stated that it had formally referred its concerns to local police to determine whether any offences had occurred.

Police confirmed they had received correspondence relating to the by-election and were assessing the information provided.

Authorities have not indicated whether a formal investigation has been launched, but reiterated that any credible allegations regarding electoral conduct are taken seriously.

Electoral administrators involved in overseeing the poll have likewise emphasised that safeguarding ballot secrecy is a cornerstone of the democratic process.

The term “family voting” is commonly used to describe situations in which relatives attempt to observe or influence another voter’s ballot.

Electoral watchdogs have long warned that even informal pressure within households can undermine the principle of independent voting.

However, substantiating such claims can be complex, as investigations typically rely on witness statements and polling station oversight records.

Reform UK said it would continue to monitor electoral processes closely and called for strict enforcement of existing safeguards to maintain public confidence.

The outcome of the police review will determine whether any further action is taken in relation to the reported incidents.