Electoral Roll

What is the Electoral Roll?

The Electoral Roll is St Barnabas Church’s official register of electors. Just like the civic Electoral Roll enables you to vote in national and local elections, being on the Church Electoral Roll allows you to vote on church matters, attend our Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM), and stand for election for the Parochial Church Council (PCC).

It is important to note that being on the Electoral Roll doesn’t make you a ‘member’ of the Church; that distinction is reserved for anybody who considers St Barnabas their spiritual home. To join the Roll, you must already be a member of a church.

Do I have to join?

You can be an active and valued member of St Barnabas without being on the Electoral Roll. Joining the Roll does not impose any additional commitments, but it helps us demonstrate the strength and vitality of our congregation. A higher number on the Roll enhances our representation and influence within the church community.

Joining the Electoral Roll is essential if you wish to:

  • Serve on the PCC or other synodical councils (such as the Deanery, Diocesan, or General Synod)

  • Attend the APCM and participate in voting

  • Get married or have your children baptised at St Barnabas Church (if you live outside the parish)

Do I qualify for the Roll?

To be eligible for the Electoral Roll, you must:

  • Be aged 16 or over (you can apply in the year you turn 16, and your name will be added once your birthday has passed)

  • Be baptised

  • Be a member of the Church of England and either live in the parish or have attended St Barnabas Church regularly for at least 6 months

Not sure if you live in the parish? Visit A Church Near You and enter your postcode for more details.

Why join the Electoral Roll?

Joining the Electoral Roll is a meaningful way to show your commitment to the St Barnabas Church community and its vision. It also provides greater involvement in the wider Church of England at the Deanery, Diocesan, and national levels. By joining, you gain the right to vote at the APCM, where elections for the PCC and parish representatives to the Deanery Synod are held.

If you live outside of the parish but are on the Electoral Roll, you enjoy the same rights and privileges as residents (e.g., for baptisms and weddings), provided you have been worshipping at St Barnabas for at least 6 months.

Your inclusion on the Electoral Roll reflects the strength and presence of our Church both locally and across the Diocese. If you regularly attend St Barnabas Church, we encourage you to consider joining the Electoral Roll.

Interested in joining?

Jane Wood can provide you with a form and answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to have a chat with Jane after a Sunday or Midweek service or email vicar@stbarnabaserdington.org.uk.

Changed your details?

If your details have changed recently, please speak to Jane after a Sunday or Midweek service or email vicar@stbarnabaserdington.org.uk so that we can update our records.

Data Privacy Notice

Please click here to view our Privacy Notice, issued in accordance with GDPR regulations, detailing how we handle your data and your rights in relation to the Electoral Roll.