TAMESIDE residents are being urged to make sure their electoral registration details are up to date, or risk losing their chance to vote in next year’s local elections.
With Tameside Council elections taking place in May 2026, the council’s annual canvass is now underway to keep the electoral register accurate and ensure everyone eligible is able to take part.
The canvass helps identify residents who may have moved, as well as young people who have turned 18 or are about to reach voting age.
Harry Catherall, Tameside Council Chief Executive and Electoral Registration Officer, said:
“Every year, we contact residents to make sure that 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 there are no changes, you can use our automated phone line or text service, it’s quick and easy.
“For new residents or young people becoming eligible to vote for the first time, the easiest way to register is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.”
Mr Catherall also encouraged younger residents and recent movers to double-check their status, adding that being registered can also help improve credit scores, as it provides reassurance to lenders when applying for loans or finance.
The council is also reminding residents who use a postal vote that new government rules mean postal voting applications now expire after three years. Anyone who has held a postal vote since before 31 October 2023 must renew by 31 January 2026.
Applications for renewal can be made online via the Government website at Apply for a postal vote – GOV.UK, or accessed at any local library.
Residents with questions about their registration status can contact Tameside Council’s electoral services team on 0161 342 8355.