RESIDENTS are being warned not to lose their voice on matters that affect them by completing their annual Household Enquiry Form and returning it as soon as possible.

The form, which has been sent to over 200,000 households across Bradford district, includes the details of residents currently registered to vote at the property.

The form ensures that Bradford Council can keep the electoral register up to date and identify and remind residents who are not registered that they need to do so.

Anyone in the household can respond to the Household Enquiry Form, but all properties must reply as soon as possible, even if there are no changes to be made.

It’s easy enough to let us know – you can do it online, by telephone, by text message or by post.

If you don’t respond you may not be able to register to vote in elections. It may also affect your credit rating for things like mobile phone contracts, mortgages or even opening a bank account.

If there is anyone over 16 in the household who is not on the form, let us know, so that they don’t miss out.

Individual Electoral Registration means that every individual is personally responsible for being on the electoral register.

Responding to the forms as soon as possible will also help us save public money – if you don’t respond, the law requires us to send reminders and make door-to-door visits to ensure details are correct.

People who have moved address recently should keep an eye out for the form and check the details. Research by the Electoral Commission indicates that recent home movers are far less likely to be registered than those who have lived at the same address for a long time.

Kersten England, Electoral Registration and Returning Officer for Bradford district said: “Bradford Council has a statutory duty to maintain the register of electors and the annual canvass of households is a part of this duty.

“We are working hard to ensure as many people as possible respond to the form so that they can register to vote and participate in elections and referendums.

“If an election is called and you’re not registered, you won’t be able to vote. That’s why it’s vital that you provide your details and make sure you can register as soon as possible.”

“It really does only take a few minutes to respond to the form and with text, telephone and online methods available, it’s never been simpler.

“Remember: Your vote matters! Don’t lose it.”

Residents who have any questions about the forms can contact their local registration team at 01274 432287 or by email at electoralservices@bradford.gov.uk .