Three reasons why you should register to vote

Published: 6 April 2023

Derby’s residents will be heading to the polls on Thursday 4 May for the largest local elections in recent memory.

Unlike in previous elections, every single seat is up for grabs with the most successful party remaining in charge of the Council for the next four years, making your vote even more important.

This change will bring us in line with many other local authorities, bringing stability and saving money with fewer elections.

To be able to have your say, you must register to vote by 11.59pm on Monday 17 April. It only takes five minutes, you can register online and all you will need is your National Insurance number.

Registering to vote doesn’t just allow you to have your say in the upcoming elections, there are other benefits which you might not be aware of, and some have absolutely nothing to do with politics.

Here are three benefits which registering to vote can bring:

1. Your credit score could get a boost

Banks and lenders often use the electoral roll to help verify your identity, and if they know who you are, your credit score could improve.

This could help in a whole range of situations such as buying a car or taking out a mobile phone contract. If you don’t have a long credit history, this can be particularly useful in helping you to pass credit checks.

2. You might find it easier to move home

As well as helping you to secure a loan, being on the electoral roll can help you to move house.

The boost to your credit score may help when trying to secure a mortgage if you’re looking to buy. If you’re looking to rent, landlords and letting agents can check the open register to verify your identity.

3. You could be selected for jury service

Are you a true crime fan? Or love watching crime dramas? Being registered to vote will mean that you could be selected for jury service and be part of a jury of 12 people who decide the outcome of a criminal trial.

There’s no other way to become a juror as they are randomly selected from the electoral register.

Wondering why you will be able to receive these benefits? When you register to vote, you’re added to the electoral roll which lists the names and addresses of everyone who is registered to vote. By default, you will also be added to the open register.

Businesses, charities and individuals can pay to access the open register to check you are who you say you are and where you live, as well as for marketing purposes. You can opt-out of having your details on the open register at any time and this won’t affect your right to vote. 

It's easy to register to vote online through the Government website using your National Insurance number. If you’re a British citizen living overseas, you will also need your passport.

You can also request a paper copy of the form from Derby City Council or register over the phone by calling 01332 640837 or using the text service on 07774 333412. For our signing service visit the Derby City Council website.

Democracy