The Electoral Registration Officer for Perth and Kinross Council will be getting in touch with every household over the next few months via email or letter to check that their details on the electoral register are up to date and included.
Starting from early July, households who have provided an email address, receive an email, asking for the householder to confirm that the information held for the property is correct or to provide any changes. A letter will sent out in August to those who have not supplied an email address.
Speaking about the upcoming canvas Mr Roy Christie, the Electoral Registration Officer for Perth & Kinross Council said: “Residents need to keep an eye out for messages from the Electoral Registration Officer so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in Angus and Perth & Kinross and you are able to vote in any forthcoming elections.
“You might not have been able to vote before but with the extension of voting rights, you may be able to vote now – but only if you are registered”.
With the recent changes in the extension of the voting rights it means that qualifying foreign citizens legally living in Scotland are able to vote, as well as anyone aged 16 and over living in Scotland is able to vote in Scottish elections such as local councils or the proposed Indyref2 vote.
Andy O’Neill, the Head of Electoral Commission in Scotland, said: “It doesn’t matter where you were born. If you are aged 16 and over, you are able to vote in elections in Scotland but only if you register to vote first. Making sure you provide the necessary information to your electoral registration office when it is needed will ensure the process runs smoothly.”
People who have moved recently are particularly encouraged to look out for the voter registration messages from the Electoral Registration Officer for Perth and Kinross Council and check the details. As well as changes in address and adding anyone over the age of 16, anyone aged 14 and above can be added to the Electoral Register but will not be eligible to vote until they turn 16, or 18 for General Elections.
Any residents who have any questions can contact their local registration team 01738 630303 or visit https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter.