Annual electoral register check coming to an end
Published: Thu 29th August, 2024
Households across Charnwood are being asked to respond to this year’s check of the electoral register.
Charnwood Borough Council has posted 63,652 forms and sent 66,433 emails to prompt households into updating the register.
Those who have not responded to the email, or those who have not received an email, will receive a canvass form through their door by Friday, 6 September.
Full details of how to complete the form online, by phone, via text or by post are all contained in the form.
Each year the Council is legally required to complete the check. All households are contacted and asked to confirm the details on the electoral register are correct or inform Electoral Services of any changes.
Two types of forms have been sent to residents. The first only requires a response if there have been any changes. The second form requires a response even if it is to confirm that there is no change.
The deadline for responding to the second form is Monday, 9 September.
Residents can update their contact details with the Council’s Electoral Services team so they may be able to receive an email instead of a letter next year by emailing elections@charnwood.gov.uk.
Rob Mitchell, the Council’s Chief Executive and Electoral Registration Officer said: “Thank you to all households who have responded to Electoral Services via the email or initial paper form.
“Our staff have been busy hand delivering these forms to households in the borough, and we will shortly be issuing the reminder letters to make sure we receiving as many responses as possible.
“The general election took place this year, and it is essential that people have the right to vote in such important elections. Completing this form ensures we have the correct details for you and those in your household who are eligible to vote.
“If you didn’t respond to the initial letter and a response was required, please keep an eye out for the reminder form which are being despatched on 24 September and will arrive in the post. Please read the letter carefully and respond by the deadline to save us carrying out further follow-ups such as a personal visit.”
The Council is legally required to carry out the check each year to ensure that the electoral register is up to date, so that everyone who is eligible to vote is registered and can have a say in future elections and referendums.
People are being asked to check whether the information currently on the electoral register for those living at their address is correct.
If the information is not correct (if people have moved out or into the property) then residents need to let the Electoral Services team know as soon as possible so individual electoral registration forms can be sent to those who need to register to vote.
The Electoral Registration Officer needs the information to be able to publish a complete and accurate electoral register on 1 December each year.
Having your details on the electoral register will:
- allow you to vote
- improve your credit rating
- make it easier to access council services
- help you avoid a fine
Full details of how residents can complete the form online, by phone, via text or by post are outlined in the form sent to them.
Frequently asked questions about this year’s check can be found on the Council's website.
More information can be found on the Council’s website or residents can contact the Council on 01509 634546.