Published Thursday, 8th September 2016
Households in Reigate and Banstead are being urged to check important voter registration information sent to them by the Council as part of its annual voter registration canvass.
Each household has been sent a form asking them to check whether the information that appears on the electoral register for those living at their address is correct. This so we can ensure that the electoral register is up to date and to identify any residents who are not registered so that they can be invited to do so.
Respond as soon as possible
John Jory, Electoral Registration Officer for Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, said: "Anyone that wants to vote must be registered. To make sure you are able to have your say in future elections, simply check your details on the form and respond as soon as possible.
"The easiest way is online at www.householdresponse.com/reigate. The form details all the other ways you can reply, including a free-phone number.
"If you're not currently registered, it’s important you respond so we can send you information about how to do this, or you can go online to register at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.
“Registering to vote also helps to keep your credit reference up to date."
It is particularly important that first time voters or anyone who has moved address recently looks out for the form to check whether they are registered.
Canvassers will start to visit homes that have not replied during September.
The 2017 elections will enable electors to vote for who represents them on Surrey County Council.
The open register
Residents can also use the form to check whether they are on the ‘open register’. The electoral register lists the names and addresses of everyone who is registered to vote in public elections and is used for electoral purposes, such as making sure only eligible people can vote. It is also used for other limited purposes specified in law, such as detecting crime (e.g. fraud), calling people for jury service and checking credit applications.
The open register is an extract of the electoral register that can be bought by any person, company or organisation. A voter’s name and address will be included in the open register unless they ask for them to be removed. Removing your details from the open register does not affect your right to vote.
For more information visit the Voting and elections page.