Electoral registration system is changing this summer

Over the summer, all Thanet residents will receive a letter through the post telling them about the biggest change to the electoral registration system in nearly 100 years.

Thanet District Council’s Electoral Registration Officer will write to all households in Thanet. The letter will explain that a new, more secure, system of Individual Electoral Registration is being introduced to replace the old system where the “head of household” registered everyone living in a property. Now, each individual will be responsible for registering themselves.

Many Thanet residents will automatically move onto the new electoral register. However, some will need to take action to join or remain on it, which they will now also be able to do for the first time by registering quickly and easily online.

Liz Green, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, said:

“I would remind residents that the elections next year are very important for both the Country and Thanet. I would encourage as many residents as possible to ensure they are registered to vote under this new system. Look out for the letter as it will tell you if you have been automatically transferred to the new register or need to provide some additional information - if you do, the letter will tell you what to do.”

Samantha Mills, Head of Campaigns at the Electoral Commission, said:

“This summer the Electoral Commission will launch a major advertising campaign that will raise awareness of the change to Individual Electoral Registration. We welcome this change, which will lead to a more secure register and replace the outdated Victorian concept that a single ‘head of household’ is responsible for registering everyone.”

For more information visit www.gov.uk/yourvotematters

 If you have not received a letter by the end of August, contact Thanet District Council Electoral Services onelectoral.services@thanet.gov.uk or 01843 577500.