Our research

Accuracy and completeness of electoral registers

We measure the quality of the electoral registers in the UK. Accuracy means we look at the number of false entries on the electoral registers and completeness means measuring whether those eligible to register are on the registers.

Analysis of electoral registration data

Our analysis looks at key data relating to entries on the electoral registers, such as the number of entries, attainers, additions and deletions. It also looks at the results of the annual canvass activities that electoral registration officers at local councils carry out each year.

Public attitudes

We carry out public opinion surveys covering a range of electoral issues such as voting, registering to vote, party finance and electoral fraud.

Electoral data

We collect data following elections and referendums in the UK. This includes data such as the size of the electorate, turnout, the number of rejected ballot papers and information on postal voting.

Voter identification pilots

We evaluated the Government’s pilot schemes in 2018 and 2019, where voters were required to bring identification to vote at the local government elections in England.

Reporting on electoral fraud

We collect data from all police forces across the UK about allegations of electoral fraud.

Referendum question research

For referendums in the UK, we look at the way the proposed referendum question is worded to make sure it is easy for voters to understand. As part of our assessment, we carry out research with the public.

Modernising elections research

We carried out some qualitative research to look at public attitudes to voting and the information around elections. The research considers views on current voting methods and explores ideas and attitudes about possible new ways of casting a vote in the future.