What is the Census?
A census is a count of a population and one has been held in England and Wales every 10 years since 1801 (except during the Second World War in 1941). The information that the census provides helps to identify the characteristics (age, gender, etc) of the population and helps central and local government to understand the needs of local communities, and plan and prioritise resources and public spending on housing, education, health and transport services for years to come.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is responsible for running the census in England and Wales and to producing the statistics that are vital to understanding your needs and those of your communities for the future. In Wiltshire the ONS is being supported by Wiltshire council.
When should I fill in my census questionnaire?
Census Day is Sunday 21 March – but you can fill yours in as soon as you get your access code in the post. Your answers should be about the people who usually live in your household on this date – even if you’re filling it in before then. You can complete the census online or find further help by visiting www.census.gov.uk.
Do I have to take part?
If you live in England and Wales, you must take part in the census – it’s a legal requirement. Census information helps inform how billions of pounds of public funding is spent. By taking around 10 minutes per person to fill in the census questionnaire, you will help make sure your community gets the services needed now and in the future.
Will the government use the information I provide to identify me?
No. The Office for National Statistics (ONS), which is an independent public body, carries out the census in England and Wales. It only ever publishes anonymous information from the census. In fact, it’s a crime to share personal census information and everything you say is protected.
How will the census make a difference to me?
The census makes a difference to everyone. It’s a once-in-a-decade chance to have your voice heard and help inform the future of your local area.
What if I do not identify with the census options?
The census asks you about your ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation, religion and national identity. It’s up to you to decide how you would like to answer each question. Some questions allow for a free text response rather than having to use predefined categories. Do it in the way that you feel best represents you.
Could information I share affect my benefits or immigration status?
No. The information you share in the census cannot be used to influence benefit claims, a residency application, immigration status or your taxes. Officials dealing with payments or services you receive cannot see your census information.
What if I cannot fill in my census questionnaire online?
The ONS can help with a wide range of support services to make it as easy as possible for you, whatever your needs. Services include:
• guidance and support in many languages and formats • help over the phone, in a web chat or on social media • a paper version of the questionnaire, if you prefer
• accessible census guidance, for example in braille
Where can I get this information?
Everyone will receive a postcard followed by a letter with their digital access code which will contain both the website address and phone number for census support.
If you need further help, visit www.census.gov.uk
or Telephone free to: 0800 141 2021
Advisors are available to help you at the following times:
- Census weekend (20 – 21 March), 8am to 8pm
- Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm
- Saturday, 8am to 1pm
- Sunday, closed
Why is the census asking me about my gender and sexual orientation?
This census asks voluntary questions about sexual orientation and gender identity for the first time. This is to give us more accurate information on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations. This will help organisations combat any inequalities these groups face and show where services are needed. The census will only ask people aged 16 years and over these questions. If you do not feel comfortable identifying on the same form as the rest of your household, you can request an individual census questionnaire and answer separately.
Can I help friends and family fill in the census?
Yes. If a friend or family member needs support, help them if you can. Always fill in your own census first. You can also ask for help for yourself, or for someone else.
Is it safe for the census to go ahead at present?
Yes. The ONS has planned and built a flexible operation which can adapt to the changing circumstances of the pandemic. It will continue to review and adapt these plans to ensure census staff and the public can be kept safe and everyone can be safely counted. It is important to note that the ONS hopes that about 75% of the population will complete the census online without the need for any additional support.
Census 2021 will also be crucial to our understanding of how the people of England and Wales have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and it will give us detailed information on the health, social and economic impacts on all of us. It is essential we understand the needs of different groups and communities and the challenges people are facing in order to inform future decisions and policy making.
Where can I get more information?
- Wiltshire Libraries are offering support with any enquiries relating to the Census 2021. Call Chippenham Library on 01249 650536 or email – libraryenquries@wiltshire.gov.uk
- Downloadable resources are available at www.census.gov.uk/downloadable-resources
