Households across Tendring will shortly receive letters telling them to check the details of those living there are accurate.

The annual canvass ensures Tendring’s Electoral Registration Office holds the correct information for adults who are UK, Commonwealth and EU nationals, and 16-17-year-olds, who live in the district.

Households which receive a white letter need only respond if changes are needed; although confirming there are no changes is a great help. Residents in properties that get a green letter have to confirm their details whether there are no changes or the detailed need updating. Those with a green letter must reply.

To respond households should follow the simple three-step process contained in the letter. Responses can be submitted free online, using the details provided in the letter.

Alongside the letters, emails and text messages will go out asking those who need to update or confirm their details to do so.

Ian Davidson, Electoral Registration Officer for Tendring, said it was key that each household checked the details were up-to-date.

“Please take the time to ensure you confirm details for your home, and update them if needed, to ensure you maintain your right to vote – your vote is important,” Mr Davidson said.

“When the letter arrives please check the information – which includes your nationality, whether you are on the open register, and if you have a postal or proxy vote – and confirm them if necessary.

“If you need to respond, the best way of doing so is online – and households must respond by the deadline in the letter to avoid unnecessary reminders. It is as easy as 1-2-3.

“If you ignore the letter, you may lose your ability to vote.”

While online and text are the most efficient means for residents to confirm or update their details, households can still reply with information about their household by phone or by post.

With online or text options residents will receive an immediate confirmation of their response. To reply by post residents will need to provide an envelope and stamp.

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