RESIDENTS across the Forest of Dean are being urged to make sure they are on the electoral register to avoid missing out on future elections.

Forest of Dean District Council has launched its annual canvass, which updates the register and identifies anyone who may not be signed up to vote.

Council chief executive and electoral registration officer Nigel Brinn said: “Maintaining an accurate electoral register is a vital part of our democratic process, and the annual canvass plays a key role in ensuring that. It’s important that residents take a few moments to check and respond to any information our Electoral Services team send out.

“It’s not just about making sure your own vote counts, it’s about ensuring that everyone eligible in your household is registered. If you're not currently registered, your name will not appear in our communications, so it’s vital to check. Don’t forget to include any 16 or 17-year-olds living at your address when responding.”

Figures from the Electoral Commission show that only 40% of people who moved home in the past year are registered, compared with 95% of those who have stayed at the same address for 16 years or more.

The electoral register is also used for other purposes such as jury service selection, fraud prevention and credit checks. There is also an open register, available for public purchase, although residents can opt out without affecting their right to vote.

Residents can respond to the annual canvass online, by phone, or by returning the form sent to them in the post. Those who have recently moved, changed their name, or have new eligible voters in their household are encouraged to act quickly.

More information is available at www.fdean.gov.uk/annualcanvass.