The electoral register

Registers are managed locally by registration officers. Using information received from the public, registration officers keep two registers - the electoral register and the open register (also known as the edited register). 

The electoral register 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 (eg, fraud), calling people for jury service and checking credit applications.

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 is 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 to be removed. Removing your details from the open register does not affect your right to vote. You can ask for them to be removed by contacting your local council's electoral registration staff. You can find their details by entering your postcode at The Electoral Commission (opens new window).

How do I join or get removed from the open register?

You can remove your details any time by emailing elections@swansea.gov.uk with your full name and address.

You can also ask to be included in the open register. You can do this by email or over the phone by calling 01792 636123.

We will also write to you to confirm any change.

If you are registering online at Gov.uk - Register to vote (opens new window) you can click the checkbox if you do not want your name and address listed on the open register.