As part of County Durham’s electoral register update, canvassers will be visiting households that have not yet responded to the annual request for information.
Last month, Durham County Council sent letters to all homes in the county asking residents to check the information currently held on the electoral register and follow the instructions included.
The council needs to know the details it holds are correct to ensure residents are included on the electoral register. This enables people to vote in local and national elections.
From Wednesday 26th August until October, canvassers will be delivering forms to households who have not replied, asking the householder to complete the form and return it. Canvassers will all be wearing Durham County Council identification badges, which should be visible at all times.
David Collingwood, electoral services manager at Durham County Council, said: “It’s extremely important to respond to the annual electoral register update form because if you don’t, you won’t be able to vote.
“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.”
To ensure distancing, staff will place the envelope on the doorstep and knock, before standing back around two metres where possible to wait for a response. If the knock isn’t answered, the canvasser will try a second time at a later date. If that isn’t answered, the form will be posted through the letterbox with a note explaining what it’s for and how to complete and return it.
For more information, call 03000 261 212 or email electoralservices@durham.gov.uk
