We’ve been urged to send back our voter registration forms to ensure that we’re eligible to vote in forthcoming elections.
The Borough Council sent out the annual canvass forms to households over the last couple of weeks in order to compile the electoral register. Residents have until 15th October to check the details of everyone at that address who is eligible to vote. Around 59,000 forms were sent out with the council already receiving more than 20,000 replies.
All changes such as adding a name can only be done by returning the form by post. If your details haven’t changed you can also reply by freephone and email. Full details on how to do this are printed on the back of the registration form.
The annual canvass has been moved forward by the Government to the period July to September 2012 to accommodate the Police and Crime Commissioner elections taking place on 15th November.
The electoral register is a list of everyone who is registered to vote- you can only take part in local and national elections if you are registered. By law, you must re-register every year.
Councillor Ken Williamson, cabinet member for resources at Stafford Borough Council, said, “It is important that you complete and return the registration form so you’re able to take part in upcoming elections. However, some people may not realise that they have to register every year. With the 15 November elections, it is even more important this year to complete and return the canvass form straight away so you are registered in time to vote.”
Other organisations such as the Credit Reference Agency have access to the electoral roll, so not updating your details can also affect any future loan or credit applications. The form also gives the option to have your details excluded from the edited register. This will mean your details cannot be bought by individuals and commercial organisations.
For more information contact the Elections Team at Stafford Borough Council at elections@staffordbc.gov.uk or call 01785 619424.
