It’s time for Census 2021
The census is here, and you can play your part by helping your community join in.
By now you will probably have seen census adverts online or on TV, and many people in your community will already have received their letters. These contain the access code which people can use to log in at www.census.gov.uk and complete their questionnaire online.
Census information helps lots of people and organisations do their work. For example, Citizens Advice uses census data to ensure they’re reaching all of the communities who need them. Charities might also use census information as evidence to secure funding. That’s why it’s so important that everybody takes part.
The questionnaire is simple to fill in, but there’s plenty of support that you can help signpost for anyone who needs it, including:
- a help section on our website covering lots of common queries
- a contact centre to call with any questions. Call 0800 141 2021 (for those living in England) or 0800 169 2021 (for those living in Wales)
- a language line which people can call to ask questions about the census through an interpreter. Call 0800 587 2021.
- guidance available to order in up to 49 languages
- an electronic questionnaire compatible with most assistive technologies and accessible materials and support available
- the option to order paper questionnaires and large print questionnaires
- guidance via web chat, text message and webform for those who prefer to communicate in writing
There will also be internet access and face-to-face help available in Census Support Centres as soon as it is possible for these to open safely. You can direct people to look up their nearest Centre for contact details and information about what support is available.
From 22 March, field officers from the census will start visiting some households to give help and encouragement to those who’ve not yet filled in their census form. These visits are nothing to worry about – field officers are there to answer any questions and offer advice. They will always follow social distancing guidelines and stay COVID-safe.
It’s a great time to be talking to your community about the importance of the census, and the benefits it has for all of us You’ll find posters, videos, social media posts and more to help you spread the word on the census resources page.
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