Eligibility and the Electoral Register

Who is eligible to vote?

You must be eighteen years or over (if you are 18 on the day of the election you can vote in that election).

Voting is open to:

• All British, Irish and other European Union citizens
• All Commonwealth citizens
• Overseas electors
• Members of HM Forces and their spouses
• Crown servants employed outside the United Kingdom

In addition to this, your name must be on the electoral register being used for the election on 1 May 2008.

What is the Electoral Register?

The Electoral Register is a list compiled by the Electoral Registration Officer of persons eligible to vote in elections within the Borough. The Electoral Registration Officer has a statutory duty to compile it each year. The Register is a public document and is available for inspection at the Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon or at the Reference Library, Regent Circus, Swindon.

How can I find out whether I am on the Electoral Register?

You can check the Electoral Register at:

Swindon Borough Council
Civic Offices
Euclid Street
Swindon
SN1 2JH

It's also viewable at:

Central Library
Regents Circus
Swindon
SN1 1QG

Alternatively, you can call the Elections Helpline on 01793 463543 or e-mail us at elecreg@swindon.gov.uk.

I don’t seem to be on the register. What do I do?

All you have to do is complete an Elector Registration form (PDF) or call the elections helpline on 01793 463543 or e-mail us at elecreg@swindon.gov.uk.

Can I change my registration now I have moved house so that I can vote in the polling station at my new address?

You will need to complete an Elector Registration form for your new address. If the form was received before 16^th April your name will appear on the electoral register for 1 May for voting. If it is received after this date your name will then appear on the register within 2 to 6 weeks of receiving your form - the register is usually updated at the beginning of each month from any new details received up to approximately the 10th day of the month before.