The first reminder forms were posted to all properties which have not yet responded to the annual canvass. So far just under 73% of households have replied which is slightly higher than we would expect our response rate to be at this stage. Of this 73%, just over 30% (around 11,800 households) have used the new automated response options.
There are 3 automated options. The % return rates are shown in brackets:
• Freephone (42.8%)
• Internet (42%)
• SMS text (15.2%)
This is a good response, but many more electors could have used the automated options! We are still receiving a large number of forms in the office where there are no changes to the details on the form.
Feedback from electors who have used the automated system has been extremely positive. All state the system is quick, easy to use and cost effective – we would agree with these comments. We want to encourage more people to use the options which save on postage and office resources. We want posting back the form to become a last resort rather than a first choice method of responding. This is particularly important as we are busy organising the Police and Crime Commissioner elections for November in conjunction with the canvass – the fewer forms to deal with manually the better.
Please spread the word about the new response systems to anyone you know who has yet to respond to the canvass. The deadline date for returning the form is 10 August.
For help completing the electoral registration form contact Electoral Services, Epping Forest District Council, Civic Offices, High Street, Epping, Essex CM16 4BZ. Telephone 01992 564411 Email elections@eppingforestdc.gov.uk.
