The Electoral Register

In the United Kingdom, in order to take part in the democratic process through voting, your name must be included in the Electoral Register.

The Annual Canvass for the Register of Electors is carried out during August to October every year and published on 1 December. It is very important that you complete this and return it as soon as possible so that you don'y lose your right to vote.

I have received a Register of Electors form - what do I have to do?

You should check that it contains the details every person permanently resident at your address who is:

• Aged 16 years or over
• A British, Irish, Commonwealth or European Union citizen living in the UK

You should also check whether anyone shown on the form is no longer a permanent resident. Finally you should return the completed form to the Electoral Registration Officer at the Civic Offices in Epping so that the details can be included in the Electoral Register.

Is there a deadline for sending back the form?

Yes, the forms must be returned by the 22 November to be included in the 1 December publication, although you can still register after this date as it is updated each month. This is useful if you move home and need to register at your new address.

What is the Electoral Register?

It is a list of names and addresses of everyone registered to vote and is also known as:
- the Register of Electors,
- the Electoral List,
- the Electoral Roll,
- or the Voters' Register.

There are two versions of the Register:
1. The Full Register
2. The Edited Register

What's the difference between the 2 kinds of register?

The Full Register contains every person on the register and is used for elections, and on cases involving crime detection and prevention, and credit application checking.

The Edited Register is available for general sale and can be bought by anyone and used for any purpose.

Does my name have to appear in the Edited Register?

No, you can opt to have your name excluded from the Edited Register by ticking the appropriate box in the electoral registration form.

Can I check that my details are correct?

Yes, you can only view the Electoral Register in person at the Civic Offices in Epping, Waltham Abbey Town Hall and the Council's Information desk inside Loughton Library.

My name is not on the Electoral Register, what should I do?

Contact the Electoral Registration Officer who will send you an application form in the post.

Where can I find further information on elections and the democratic process?

Information can be found on the Electoral Commission website at aboutmyvote.co.uk, enter your postcode for information available in many other languages, audio and in large print - click here to visit aboutmyvote.co.uk

Contact Electoral Services on 01992 564411