People living in temporary accommodation urged to have their say at general election

Published by Jon Land for 24dash.com in Housing

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, said: “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/order-resources-form or calling 0845 8500 501 reference, order code EC33.