What is the Census?

This March, 25 million census questionnaires will be sent out in England and Wales, one for every household.   The 2011 Census will produce a high quality estimate of the population, it tells us how many people live where and the types of people they are.  This means decisions, like working out who needs facilities in the future, are focused on accurate, relevant details.  The census is carried out by the Office for National Statistics and everyone is asked the same questions in order to take a snapshot of the population at one moment in time.  The census has collected information about the population every ten years since 1801 (except in 1941 during World War II) and the next census day in England and Wales is on 27 March 2011. 

So What Does it Mean?

The census means different things to different people. Genealogists use previous census returns to research family history; academics use census population estimates for predicting trends; local authorities for planning policy; businesses for product development and store locations; and central government to help share out funding. It’s all about planning ahead and the census creates a population map that feeds those decisions. It’s the one source of statistics that looks at everybody in England and Wales by taking a snapshot of us all. Census statistics allow everyone to focus on accurate details, for careful decision making tomorrow and into the future.  

Confidential Information, Completion and Support

Personal census information collected is kept confidential by ONS and protected by law.  Confidential answers on the questionnaire are turned into numbers by statisticians and these numbers can then be used by planners to make detailed decisions about what facilities and services are needed and where.  Census records remain confidential for 100 years. 

This is the first census which can be completed online at www.census.gov.uk and individuals can choose between completing the census questionnaire online or posting it back.

A variety of assistance in completing the form is also available including the Census Helpline which will open on 4 March and will enable individuals to request a house visit (0300 020 1130) and the Census Website (www.census.gov.uk).

Work Questions in 2011 Census

One section of the 2011 Census questionnaire asks individuals to provide information about their job and workplace.  For the first time, individuals are requested to provide the full address and postcode of their workplace.  This is one of the few questions on the form which individuals might not know the answer to automatically, and may require them to search for the information. Companies may wish to promote their company address and postcode to staff in advance of Census day on 27 March.

Mid Wales Team

Some 35,000 people have been appointed across the UK on a temporary basis to support the completion of the ONS 2011 Census.  These individuals are tasked with maximising the number of questionnaires returned as part of the census.  This includes: raising awareness of the census; working with local and regional organisations to communicate with hard to reach groups; offering support to groups and individuals in completing their questionnaires; delivering questionnaires to communal establishment; and following up with those who haven't sent their questionnaires back.  It's a huge logistical task, and the assistance of local and regional organisations will be vital in making sure the return rates in Mid Wales are as high as possible.  Six Census Coordinators have recently commenced work in Powys to carry out this task.

Any MWMG member requiring more information about the Census, including requesting promotional materials, can contact Lindsey Phillips on w10401@census.gov.uk.