The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is responsible for planning and running the census in England and Wales. The ONS is the largest independent producer of official statistics in the United Kingdom (UK).
What is the census?
The census is a survey which takes place every 10 years and is used to produce various statistics about people and households throughout England and Wales.
Data gathered during the census assists a wide range of organisations in their work. All information is anonymised and the census records are kept secure for 100 years.
The survey asks questions about you and your household. It is designed to help build a true picture of our society and there is no other survey that gathers as much information about us and our area’s future needs. The ONS needs every household in England and Wales to take part so that the statistics produced are representative of the population.
When is the next census?
The next census is taking place on Sunday 21 March 2021.
Moving the census online
The ONS want as many people as possible to submit their questionnaire online in 2021. It has been designed to be easy to complete using any device. Most people will get a letter through the post with a unique access code on it including instructions on what to do next.
If you are not able to complete your census questionnaire online you can request a paper version (other formats will also be available). A national helpline will be able to provide help and support too including translation and telephone completion.
Why should I take part in the census?
It’s really important that you take part in the census, the data that it generates has the power to make a real impact on our day-to-day lives.
The information that you provide will help build a picture of where you live, and that will be used to decide how vital services are planned and funded. These include things like schools, doctors’ surgeries, hospitals and libraries. Charities also use census information to help get funding for new services.
Where can I find out more?
More information about the 2021 census is available via the official census website or from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Working for the census
The census creates many temporary roles across England and Wales – if you are interested in finding out more visit www.censusjobs.co.uk