29/7/20
The annual canvass of eligible voters in the city is now underway, with 14 to 16-year-olds able to register to vote for the first time.

The law has changed in Wales so 16 and 17-year-olds will be able to vote in next year's Senedd elections in May. Qualifying foreign citizens living in Cardiff will also be able to take part, by registering to vote.

Residents across the city, including these newly enfranchised groups of voters, are being encouraged not to lose their voice on decisions that affect them by making sure their electoral registration details are up to date.

The summer canvass takes place every year and ensures that Cardiff's electoral register is kept up to date, identifying any residents who are not registered so that they can be encouraged to do so.

Residents will be contacted in a number of ways, including by post, phone or email to check the information held about their household remains accurate and any changes that are needed can be made.  Residents are asked to get in touch with the Council's Electoral Services team as soon as possible if any changes are needed.

Fourteen to 16-year-olds in Wales and qualifying foreign citizens can now register to take part in the 2021 Senedd elections.  The Police and Crime Commissioner election is also scheduled to take place in May and while  the new franchise does not extend to this election, all other eligible residents are encouraged to register to be able to vote.

Paul Orders, Electoral Registration Officer at Cardiff Council, said: "It's important that residents keep an eye out for the canvass communication letter we're sending out, so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in the city. To make sure you are able to have your say at elections next year, simply follow the instructions in the letter.

"If you're not currently registered, your name will not appear in the messages we send. If you want to register, the easiest way is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote, or we'll send you information explaining how to do this in the post.

"This year's canvass, which we have to carry out by law, is taking place during a challenging public health situation. We are working to ensure that we take account of public health guidelines, including the continued importance of social distancing."

People who have moved recently are particularly encouraged to look out for the voter registration messages and check the details. Research by the Electoral Commission indicates that recent home movers are far less likely to be registered than those who have lived at the same address for a long time.

Across Great Britain, 92% of people who have been at their property for more than sixteen years will be registered, compared to 36% of people who have lived at an address for less than one year.

Rhydian Thomas, Head of Electoral Commission Wales, said: "It's really important that everyone who is entitled to vote is able to do so. More people are now entitled to vote in Wales, including 16-17 year olds and qualifying foreign citizens. Making sure you provide the necessary information to your local authority when it is needed will ensure the process runs smoothly. This is particularly helpful in the current public health situation, as it will help avoid the need for home visits from canvassers.

"There's lots of helpful information about registering to vote on our websitehttps://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter."

Any residents who have any questions can find more information on www.cardiff.gov.uk/elections