Southwark residents urged to look out for their voter registration packs from the council

4 August 2020

Southwark residents are being reminded not to lose their voice on decisions that affect them by making sure their electoral registration details are up to date.

With the London Mayoral elections taking place in Southwark in May 2021, this is an important opportunity for residents to make sure they can take part.

The annual canvass ensures that the electoral register up to date, identifying any residents who are not registered so that they can be encouraged to do so. They would then be able take part in any future elections.

Duncan Whitfield, Electoral Registration Officer at Southwark Council said: “It’s important that residents keep an eye out for letters about electoral registration, so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in Southwark. To make sure you are able to have your say at elections simply follow the instructions on the letter you have received. These letters were sent out to every property in the borough around 24 July.

“If you’re not currently registered, your name will not appear in the messages we send. If you want to register, the easiest way is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.  We have already sent you information explaining how to do this in the post."

He continued: “This year’s canvass, which we have to carry out by law, is taking place during a challenging public health situation. We are working to ensure that we take account of public health guidelines, including the continued importance of social distancing.”

Residents who need to provide information to the Electoral Registration Officer will also be contacted by telephone, text and email, where possible.

Melanie Davidson, Head of Support and Improvement at the Electoral Commission, said: “It’s really important that everyone who is entitled to vote is able to do so. Making sure you provide the necessary information to your local authority when it is needed will ensure the process runs smoothly. This is particularly helpful in the current public health situation, as it will help avoid the need for home visits from canvassers.

“There’s lots of helpful information about registering to vote on our website www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter.”

For more information on the Annual Canvass in Southwark visit www.southwark.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/voting-and-elections/the-annual-electoral-canvass

Any residents who have any questions can contact their local registration team on 020 7525 7373 or email electoral.enquiries@southwark.gov.uk. If you are already registered and you wish to apply for a postal vote, please email postal.votes@southwark.gov.uk

Page last updated: 04 August 2020