READING Borough Council has announced that the next phase of its electoral register drive is beginning this week.
This marks the third phase of the drive to ensure as many residents as possible are registered with up-to-date information.
The council’s annual canvas will now see the distribution of canvass forms to households in Reading to make sure that their details are up to date on the electoral register.
Households in Reading with residents aged 16-17 are particularly reminded to look out for canvass forms, as teenagers can be registered ahead of turning 18, when they will be entitled to vote.
Those who have recently moved house are also encouraged to update their details on the register.
Michael Graham, Electoral Registration Officer at Reading Borough Council, said: “Please keep an eye out for important updates from Reading Council over the coming days.
“The annual canvass is our way of making sure that the information on the electoral register for every address is accurate and up to date.
“To make sure you don’t lose your say at future elections, just follow the instructions in the canvass forms.”
He also added: “Remember, the forms being sent out this week are only going to households where we have not been able to match details with the DWP, and to households who have not yet responded to the canvass letters sent out in at the end of July. People must respond to this latest letter by 25th September 2024.
“The quickest and easiest way to reply is online by following the simple instructions in the letter–alternatively, please check the details on the form and update the information if necessary, returning the form in the pre-paid envelope provided.
“Where no response is received, the Council is then obliged to follow up with households again, which could include door to door canvassers visiting or telephoning the address.
“It costs the Council money to do this, so it’s important the form is returned as quickly as possible, ideally online which is by far the quickest route.”
Residents can also update their information online via: electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-and-elections
They can also contact Reading Borough Council with queries by emailing: Elections@Reading.gov.uk, or calling: 0118 937 3717
