Electoral registration FAQs
This page contains some of the questions we are asked most frequently about Elections and Electoral Registration. Click on the question below to show the answer.
Questions
I've received a household response form what do I do?
If you have received a single A4 form and all the details are correct you do not need to do anything.
If the information needs amending please follow the instructions on the form to change this online.
If you have received an A3 form a response is required to either confirm the information is correct or to amend the details.
What should I do if I can't get to the polling station on polling day?
You can choose to vote by post or by proxy. Find out more on our voting by post or proxy webpage.
What should I do if I am not registered?
You can register online at Gov.uk's website. Or to request a paper application please email elections@scambs.gov.uk
My neighbours have received poll cards, but I haven't - will I be able to vote?
Poll cards do not always arrive together, but it would be best to check that you are on the Electoral Register by calling 01954 713 000.
I have already told the council I live here and I have voted in the past – why am I not registered?
Even if you have registered to pay council tax or receive other council services, you may still need to register to vote. This will especially be the case if you have recently moved house.
Do I have to be on the Register to get credit?
It will almost certainly be much harder to obtain credit if you are not on the Electoral Register.
Why are there two versions of the Register?
The Full Register
This has the names and addresses of everyone registered to vote and is updated every month. Anyone can look at it at the Council's office, but copies can only be supplied for certain purposes, such as elections and law enforcement. Credit reference agencies are also allowed to use the Full Register, but only to check your name and address if you are applying for credit, and to help stop 'money laundering'. Anyone who has a copy of the Register will be committing a criminal offence if they unlawfully pass on information from it.
The Open Register
This is available for general sale and can be used for any purpose. You can choose not to be on it. It will be kept separate from the Full Register and updated every month. The Open Register can be bought by any person, company or organisation and could be used for different purposes such as checking your identity and commercial activities such as marketing.
Should you "Opt Out" of the Open Register?
If you do tick the "opt out" box when registering, your name and address will only appear on the Full Register. If you do not tick the box, your name will also appear on the open version of the Register, which anyone can buy. This means anyone can use your details for any purpose. To opt out once already registered you can email elections@scambs.gov.uk
Can I view the Register online, or can you look someone up for me?
The Electoral Register is not available to view online.
A paper copy of the Electoral Register can be inspected in person at the Council's offices in Cambourne.
My name has changed. How do I change it on the register?
You will need to supply evidence of the name change. You can email us at elections@scambs.gov.uk or call us on 01954 713 000.
Alternatively you can register online again using your new details.
How do I opt out of the open register
I’ve moved house and need to update the Electoral Register
If you have moved house you will need to submit a new application to register to vote for that address. This can be done online via Gov.uk.