The electoral register

The electoral register is a list of the names and addresses of everyone who is registered to vote within the Braintree Electoral area.

The electoral register and the 'open register'

We keep 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 who is registered to vote. This register is used for electoral purposes - such as making sure only eligible people can vote - and for other limited purposes specified in law. The personal data in the register must always be processed in line with data-protection legislation.

How to get onto the electoral register or update your details

Use the register to vote service to:

• get on the electoral register
• update your details (for example change your name or address)

The register is updated monthly after publication on 1 December each year. If you register or change your details during this time, your new details will be included in the next monthly update. We also use the annual canvass to help us to update the register.

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. The personal data in the register must always be processed in line with data-protection legislation. When you register you will automatically be on this register unless you inform us that you wish to be taken off. Each individual must inform us themselves that they wish to be taken off of the open register.

How to check if you are on the electoral register or request to be removed 

To check if you're on the register or to be removed, you can contact the Electoral Registration Office on:

01376 552525 or elections@braintree.gov.uk

View the electoral register

You can only inspect the current version of the electoral register at the Council Offices, Causeway House, Braintree. 

 If you wish to view this public document, please call the Elections Office on 01376 552525 to discuss and make an appointment. The Electoral Registration Officer cannot carry out searches for anyone. We cannot confirm if someone is one the register by email or over the phone due to data protection restrictions.

Updates to the electoral register

Our Electoral Services team make monthly updates to the register up until our annual canvass of households. Any amendments made in this process will show in the register of 1 December. The credit reference agencies receive a copy of all monthly updates and the full revised register so they can update their records.

Historic copies of registers

Electoral registers were introduced in 1832 and, with a few exceptions, have been produced annually ever since.

Essex Record Office in Chelmsford has the electoral registers from 1845 to 2001. You can also go to the British Library to consult the national collection of printed electoral registers. They hold a complete set of electoral registers from 1947 onwards.