Don't lose your vote - Look out for the annual electoral canvass form coming through the post soon!

Torridge District Council Electoral Services Team will begin sending letters to households from 27^th July to verify the accuracy of the information held on the electoral register for properties across the district.

The annual canvass ensures that the register remains current and accurate and reflects anyone entitled to vote in elections. The process is designed to pick up any gaps in the register or changes to people's circumstances while it also helps to identify those who no longer reside at a given address.

The simplified system introduced in 2022 means that residents do not need to respond if all the information in the letter is correct and includes everyone eligible to vote at the address.

The electoral register is important as residents who are not registered will not be able to take part in any future elections or referendums. Being absent from the Electoral Register may also negatively impact people's credit ratings and cause difficulties when applying for financial products such as mortgages, credit cards, or even a mobile phone contract.

Councillor Simon Newton, Lead Member for Legal & Democratic Support at Torridge District Council said: 

"It's important that residents keep an eye out in their post for their voter registration letter so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in the district. To make sure you are able to have your say at future elections, simply follow the instructions on the form.

"If you're not currently registered, your name will not appear in the messages we send. If you want to register, the easiest way is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote Please remember that residents only have to respond if any information in the letter needs updating or if someone residing at the address is missing from the form."

For more information, contact the electoral services team on 01237 428739 or elections@torridge.gov.uk 

July 23