Online electoral registration available for the first time

Stratford-on-Avon District residents should have received a letter from their Electoral Registration Officer last month informing them of the change to the electoral registration system – a move from the old 'head of household' registration system to Individual Electoral Registration.

Less than 6,800 of local District residents were not automatically transferred to the new electoral register.  Anyone who received a letter telling them they were not transferred can visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote to register to vote online.

Darren Whitney, Stratford-on-Avon District Council's Democratic Services Manager says: “Many Stratford-on-Avon District residents have received a letter from the elections team to tell them that they have automatically moved onto the new registration system.  However, some residents were told that they needed to provide extra information in order to register under the new system.  It's important that they now do this, which can be done online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

“This is the first time that people can register to vote online and it's quick and simple.  This should appeal to many young people or students in Stratford District, so if you've just turned 18 or you've not registered before, get online to register to vote."

The Electoral Commission, the UK's election watchdog, has called for the introduction of Individual Electoral Registration since 2003 as it will lead to a more secure electoral register.

If you did not receive a letter please contact the District Council's elections team on 01789 260208.