We do not use records from other council departments to update the register, but we may use that information to contact you and invite you to register.
Our electoral registration officer keeps two registers, the electoral register and the open register (also known as the edited register).
The electoral register
The electoral register lists the names and addresses of everyone that's registered to vote in public elections. The register is used for electoral purposes, like making sure only eligible people can vote.
It's also used for other limited purposes, specified in law, including:
• detecting crime (for example, fraud)
• calling people for jury service
• checking credit applications
You can ask to inspect the electoral register.
The open register
The open register is an extract of the electoral register, but is not used for elections.
It can be bought by any person, company or organisation. For example, it's used by businesses and charities to confirm name and address details.
Your name and address will be included in the open register unless you ask for them removed.
You can permanently opt-out of the open register. Removing your details from the open register does not affect your right to vote.
Find out more about both registers and how they may be used.
Registering anonymously
If you're concerned that having your name or address on the register may affect your safety, you may be able to register to vote without your details showing on the register. Find out if you can register to vote anonymously.