Annual canvassing across West Suffolk moves to doorstep visits

05 Sep 2025

Residents in West Suffolk are being encouraged to check their electoral registration details are correct or risk losing their voice in future elections and referendums, with the annual canvassing personal visits starting on Friday 6 September.

The annual canvass is a legal requirement that identifies who risks not being able to vote due to outdated information and ensure residents have registered before it is too late. To do this, West Suffolk Council are required by law to contact every residential property in the district.

Residents that have not responded to previous emails, letters or texts will receive a personal visit to their home from a trained canvasser who will be able to update details on the electoral register. For anyone that needs to be added to the register, the canvasser will also be able to collect the resident’s date of birth and National Insurance number.

The tablet used to collect information synchronises with the electoral register so details are always updated, with the electors information remaining secure and verified quickly without the need to send out further forms.

If there is no answer at the property, the canvassers will leave a calling card advising why the visit was made and the steps for the resident to make.

Cllr Gerald Kelly, Cabinet Member for Governance, Regulatory and Environment at West Suffolk Council, said: “It is our duty to carry out the annual canvass to make sure that information on the electoral register is accurate. If you receive any communication from West Suffolk Council about updating your details, please do provide the necessary information. By responding sooner, it ensures the process is quicker and smoother, with fewer visits undertaken by our canvassers.”

The easiest way to register to vote is online at GOV.UK - Register to Vote

For more information about annual canvassing, please visit: Annual update of electoral register 

Residents with questions about their electoral registration status can contact West Suffolk Council’s Electoral Services team at: elections@westsuffolk.gov.uk.

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