Warrington’s residents are being warned not to lose their voice on decisions that affect them, by making sure their electoral registration details are up to date.
Correspondence about the annual canvass was sent to households in July, with reminder letters being sent to households that haven’t yet responded from Friday 25 September.
With elections set to take place in Warrington in May 2021, following the postponement of this year’s parish and local elections, due to the coronavirus pandemic, this is an important opportunity for residents to make sure they can take part and cast their votes.
The annual canvass ensures that the council can keep the electoral register up to date, identifying any residents who are not registered so that they can be encouraged to do so.
Warrington Borough Council’s Chief Executive, Professor Steven Broomhead, who is the Returning Officer for Warrington, said: “It’s important that you keep an eye out for canvass information being delivered to households that haven’t yet responded, so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in Warrington. To make sure you are able to have your say in the elections next year, simply follow the instructions in the information we’ll be posting through your letterbox shortly.
“To register, the easiest way is online at gov.uk/register-to-vote, or we’ll send you information explaining how to do this in the post.
“It’s really important that everyone who is entitled to vote is able to do so. Making sure you provide the necessary information to us will ensure that the registration process runs smoothly. This is particularly helpful in the current pandemic situation, as it will help avoid the need for home visits from canvassers.”
People who have moved recently are particularly encouraged to look out for the voter registration information. Research shows that recent home movers are far less likely to be registered than those who have lived at the same address for a long time. Across Great Britain, 92% of people who have been at their property for more than sixteen years will be registered, compared to 36% of people who have lived at an address for less than one year.
For more information, visit warrington.gov.uk/canvass
