WIREDGOV

The Electoral Commission is reminding people living in temporary accommodation that they don’t need a permanent address to have a say at the next general election. The Commission, the independent elections watchdog, has produced a poster encouraging residents in shelters, hostels and B&Bs to discuss how to register to vote with their accommodation managers.

Peter Wardle, Chief Executive of the Electoral Commission said: “People eligible to vote who are living in temporary accommodation may not realise that they can still register and vote using their temporary address. By displaying this poster and providing a point of contact, accommodation managers can encourage those who are often disconnected from society to have their say.”

The project is being supported by Homeless Link, an umbrella organisation for homeless projects and organisations. Chief Executive Jenny Edwards commented:

“Homeless Link believes it is crucial that those who are experiencing homelessness use their political voice to influence the environment in which they live and the services they use. We welcome the recognition of the importance of homeless people’s votes and are working to increase awareness of voter registration procedures.”

The poster and information leaflets are available from www.dopolitics.org.uk calling 0845 8500 501 reference, order code EC33.

For further information please contact:
Electoral Commission Press office
020 7271 0704 / 0530
email: press@electoralcommission.org.uk
outside office hours 07789 920414

Notes to editors:

1. The Electoral Commission is an independent body set up by the UK Parliament. Our aim is integrity and public confidence in the UK’s democratic process. We regulate party and election finance and set standards for well-run elections. We make sure people understand it is important to register to vote, and know how to vote.
2. A General Election must take place by 3 June 2010.
3. People living in temporary accommodation can register to vote with the local Electoral Registration Officer using their temporary address. Visit www.electoralcommissio.org.uk or your local authority.
4. People with no fixed address should complete a Declaration of local connection available from the local electoral registration office. On the form you need to give an address where you would be living if it were not for your current situation, or an address where you have lived in the past. If you are homeless, you can give details of where you spend a substantial part of your time.
5. You can register to vote if you are a British, Irish or qualifying Commonwealth citizen. You can also register if you are an EU citizen resident in the UK as you are eligible to vote in local elections - but not the General Election. Visit www.aboutmyvote.co.uk.

Contact

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• Telephone: (020) 7271 0704