CANVASSERS are being sent out to knock on the doors of East Hampshire residents not yet registered to vote.
Although most people are on the electoral register, a number still aren’t, according to East Hampshire District Council (EHDC)
More and more residents are heading online to ensure they are on the electoral register but others are still risking their right to vote by not registering, said a council spokesman.
The canvassers will be out knocking on doors around the district from Friday, September 23 onwards.
Sandy Hopkins, EHDC Chief Executive, said: “More and more people are coming round to the idea that it is quicker and easier to respond using the websitewww.householdresponse.com/easthampshire(link is external).
“It’s really important for everyone to be on the electoral register. If you are not you lose the right to vote in important local and national elections and you may also be refused credit.
“If you have not yet responded you may receive a visit from one of our canvassers, who will be able to help you complete the form. It’s so easy there’s no reason not to do it.”
The council says that the number of people responding online, at www.householdresponse.com/easthampshire, has rocketed by 167% compared to last year.
In a more traditional effort to ensure everyone eligible to vote is registered, a Household Enquiry Form has been sent to every home in the district.
Residents can return the form, phone in or go online to make sure they remain on the register – but those that don’t respond could have their name removed from the list and their right to take part in elections removed along with it.
Some household changes will require a further form to be completed in order for the change to be reflected on the electoral register.