Register of Electors
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What is the Electoral Register?
The electoral register (sometimes called the electoral roll) lists the names and addresses of everyone who is registered to vote in public elections.
The register is used for electoral purposes, such as making sure only eligible people can vote. It is also used for other limited purposes specified in law, such as:
- detecting crime e.g., fraud
- calling people for jury service
- checking credit applications
Annual canvass
A fully revised version of the Electoral Register is published by 1 December each year. This revision takes account of all changes notified during the annual registration canvass that takes place each autumn.
If you are applying to register under the monthly rolling registration process, you will be included on the notice of alteration to the register on the first of the month following approval of your application.
Versions of the Electoral Register
There are two versions of the Electoral Register, the electoral version and the open version.
The electoral version is used only for elections, preventing and detecting crime and checking applications for financial credit. The recipients of the full register are clearly set out in law, and may only use the information in the register the purposes specified by the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001.
The open register is available for general sale and can be used for commercial activities like marketing.
When you register to vote, you can choose to opt out of the open register, which means your details cannot be used for marketing purposes.
Opt out of the open register
Note: removing your details from the open register does not affect your right to vote.
If you are not currently on the electoral register you can opt out of the open register when you make your application. You can also indicate this if you are submitting a paper application.
If you are already on the Electoral Register, you must opt out of the open register individually (i.e. somebody else cannot do it on your behalf, even if they live at the same address as you).
You can also request that you be opted out at any time by contacting Electoral Services at ero@barnet.gov.uk or phone 020 8359 5577. You must make it clear that you wish to opt out of the open register, and include your full name and address.
Find out more about both registers and how they may be used.
Check if you are registered to vote
Every local authority holds the Electoral Register for their own area. There is no online electoral register. To find out if you are already on the Electoral Register please email ero@barnet.gov.uk or phone 020 8359 5577.
Updating your details on the Electoral Register
Please contact Electoral Services, if:
- you move house
- you change your name
- someone need to be removed off the register because they have died.
Please email ero@barnet.gov.uk or phone 020 8359 5577 or so that we can update the register.
View the Electoral Register
The electoral register is available for public inspection under supervision at the Electoral Services, London Borough of Barnet, 2 Bristol Avenue, London NW9 4EW between the hours of 9.30am and 4pm on normal working days.
Anonymous registration
If you feel that you are at risk by your name appearing on the register of electors you can apply to be entered anonymously and if your application is accepted your name and address will not be shown. Any person living with you can also apply to vote in this way.
You will need to complete a form giving the reason for needing to be registered anonymously e.g. escaping from domestic violence or an occupation that requires you keep your identity private.
You are required by law to provide documentary evidence in the form of a court order or injunction. If you do not have either of these you are required by law for your application to be supported by one of the following people:
- a Police Officer of, or above the rank of, Superintendent
- the Director General of the Security Services or the Serious Organised Crime Agency; or
- a Director of Adult Social Services/Children Services
The qualifying officer does not have to be based in the same area as you, but the supporting documentation cannot be signed by a more junior person within their organisation.
To apply to register anonymously contact Electoral Services on ero@barnet.gov.uk or call 020 8359 5577.
How your information will be used
Electoral Services collect personal data from our residents (and some other eligible citizens) to enable us to carry out these ERO and RO duties. All Electoral Service functions are performed in the public interest and in accordance with relevant legislation. It is our responsibility to ensure that your information is kept safe.
Our Privacy Notice contains more information on how we manage personal data, your rights and how to update your details.
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