The electoral register is a list of the names and addresses of everyone who is registered to vote. There are two versions of the electoral register - the full register and the edited register.
The full register lists the name and address of everyone who is registered to vote and is updated every month. The main use of the full register is to show who can vote in elections and referendums. Credit reference agencies can use it, but only to check your name and address if you are applying for credit. The full register can also be used for law enforcement. The full register is available for inspection in the Bath Record Office, based at the Guildhall in Bath.
The edited register is available for general sale and can be used for any purpose. It can be bought by any person, company or organisation and can be used for commercial activities such as marketing. You can choose not to be on the edited register by ticking the appropriate box on your electoral registration form. The edited register is available for inspection in public libraries and Council reception offices at:-
The Guildhall, Bath
The Hollies, Midsomer Norton
Riverside, Keynsham
In order to vote in UK elections and referendums you need to be on the electoral register. You can register at any time throughout the year as the register is updated almost every month. Most people register between September and November every year, when the Electoral Registration Officer delivers a registration form to all the properties in Bath & North East Somerset. This is called the annual canvass; all you need to do is return the form to ensure you're registered. Alternatively, if there are no changes to the details printed on the form you receive during the annual canvass, you can register by freephone (0808 284 1471) or internet www.elecreg.co.uk/bathnes; please note that you need to have the form in front of you in order to complete the registration.
If you move house and need to register at your new address you can download the electoral registration form from the "Related Documents" section on this page, or alternatively you can request one by calling the electoral registration helpline on 01225 477333.