LOCAL 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.

This year it’s especially vital that residents who need to respond to the Council about changes to their information do so quickly in order to help reduce the need for door-to-door visits during the on-going Covid-19 pandemic.

Registration forms are being sent to all households in the District. This annual canvass which every Council has to carry out by law, is done to identify and encourage residents who haven’t registered to do so.

With elections taking place in May 2021 that will see a third of Councillors fighting to retain their seat, this is an important opportunity for residents to make sure they can take part.

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If you’re not currently registered, the easiest way to register is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote, or by telephone on 01274 432287. You’ll need your national insurance number and date of birth.

People who have moved recently are particularly encouraged to look out for the voter registration forms from the Council and check their details.

There’s a change to the system this year – unlike previously, not everyone will need to take action. You’ll only need to respond to the registration form sent if there’s been a change in your household, or if the form sent says you need to do so.

Residents should receive their forms any time over the next few weeks.

When you receive your form, if you are asked to respond or need to make a change to the information, please reply as soon as possible. This will reduce the need for face-to-face contact on the door-step, which is particularly important for both staff and residents while Covid-19 is still present.

Kersten England, Electoral Registration and Returning Officer for Bradford district said: “It’s important that residents keep an eye out for messages from Bradford Council so we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in the district.

"It’s really important that everyone who is entitled to vote is able to do so. To make sure you’re able to have your say at elections in 2021, simply follow the instructions in your registration form.

“This year’s canvass faces the additional challenge of taking place during the Covid-19 pandemic and making sure you provide the necessary information is very important. We are working to ensure that any door-knocking which may be required takes account of public health guidelines, including the continued importance of social distancing.

“If there’s a change to your household information or you’ve been asked to respond, we urge you to do this as soon as possible either online, by mail or by phone.”

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. Across Great Britain, 92 per cent of people who have been at their property for more than sixteen years will be registered, compared to 36 per cent of people who have lived at an address for less than one year.

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 .