Islanders are being warned not to lose their voice on decisions that affect them by making sure their electoral registration details are up to date.
Although there are no planned elections during 2022 or 2023, it is a good idea to make sure that you can take part, as by-elections for parish, town or community councils can happen at any point throughout the year.
The annual canvass ensures that the Isle of Wight Council can keep the electoral register up to date, identifying any residents who are not registered to vote so they can be encouraged to do so. Once registered, they would then be able to take part in any future elections.
Claire Shand, electoral Registration officer at the Isle of Wight Council, said:
“It’s important that residents keep an eye out for letters from us, so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address on the Island.
“To make sure you are able to have your say at any future elections, simply follow the instructions in your letter.
“If you’re not currently registered, your name will not appear in the letters or forms we send. If you want to register, the easiest way is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote, or we’ll send you information explaining how to do this in the post.”
People who have moved recently are particularly encouraged to look out for the voter registration letters from the council, and check the details.
Any residents who have any questions can contact the Isle of Wight Council electoral registration team at https://www.iow.gov.uk/Council/Elections/Electoral-Registration/Contact or via [email protected].
It would be more helpful if they didn’t mark the letter “DO NOT IGNORE” it just makes me want to ignore it for there cheek!
Odd then that they ignore us the people !