EA Bulletin: 444 England

Further to Bulletin 442, the provisions setting out the handling of data protection complaints came into force on 19th June 2026. These new rules apply to Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Returning Officers (ROs) in their role as data controllers.

We have updated our Data protection guidance for EROs and ROs to reflect these new requirements. If you have any queries or need any further support, please contact your local Commission Team at [email protected].

We have published our independent evaluation of the UK government’s flexible voting pilots at the May 2026 local elections in England.

2026 flexible voting pilots evaluation | Electoral Commission

These pilots tested early voting in Cambridge, North Hertfordshire and Tunbridge Wells, and a centralised voting hub in Milton Keynes. The Commission’s evaluation found that the pilots were delivered successfully, with few administrative issues reported by Returning Officers. While take-up was low, voters who used the flexible voting options were positive about their experience and welcomed the flexibility, convenience and accessibility they offered.

We have made recommendations to UK Government in relation to any future piloting or assessment of flexible voting options. These highlight the other options for introducing greater flexibility for voters and, if further pilots are proposed, the need to design them in a way that generates a comprehensive and comparative evidence base, rather than simply replicating the current body of evidence.
 

To support your delivery of the annual canvass, we have a set of resources to help you promote the canvass in your area and encourage residents to complete the required steps.

Available resources include: 
•    Social media graphics 
•    Template social media messaging 
•    Template press releases 
 

The social media graphics are designed to be clear and adaptable, using simple icons to represent the key stages of the canvass. The graphics are supported by ready-to-use social media messages, allowing you to select what will work best for you and your residents. 

This year we have added two new messages to our set:  

•    Update your details without waiting. Remind residents to tell their local council about any changes to their details as soon as possible, rather than waiting for an election or the annual canvass.  

•    Council tax isn't voter registration. Registering for council tax at a new address does not automatically register you, or anyone else in your household, to vote there.

We hope these resources make it even easier to communicate key annual canvass messages and help residents keep their electoral registration up to date. 
If you have any questions about these resources, please contact [email protected]