Tameside residents urged to check voter registration details

Tameside residents are being urged to check their electoral registration details to make sure they don’t miss out on having their say in next year’s local elections.

With Tameside Council elections taking place in May 2026, residents are reminded that now is the time to ensure they are correctly registered to vote. The annual canvass is currently under way, helping the council keep the electoral register accurate and up to date.

The canvass identifies anyone who may risk losing their right to vote and encourages them to register before it’s too late. People who have recently moved home and younger residents, particularly those turning 18 or who have just become eligible to vote, are being urged to check their details.

Tameside Council Chief Executive and Electoral Registration Officer Harry Catherall said: “Every year, we contact residents to make sure the information on the electoral register for every address is accurate and up to date. To make sure you don’t lose your say at upcoming elections, simply follow the instructions sent to you. If you have no changes in the household, you can use our automated phone line or even just text back that there’s no change, it’s quick and easy.”

He added: “The easiest way for new residents or young people registering for the first time is to visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. I would particularly encourage younger people and those who have recently moved house to check they are registered.

“An added benefit of being on the electoral register is that it can improve your credit rating. If you’re applying for a loan or any kind of finance, being registered helps give lenders confidence.”

The council is also contacting residents who vote by post to remind them to renew their postal vote applications. Under new Government rules, postal votes now expire after three years. Anyone who has held a postal vote since before 31 October 2023 will need to renew their application by 31 January 2026.

The quickest and easiest way to renew is online via the Government website: Apply for a postal vote - GOV.UK. Computers and internet access are also available at local libraries for those who need them.

Residents who have questions about their registration status can contact Tameside Council’s Electoral Services team on 0161 342 8355.