Submitted on
Tuesday 9 November 2010
by
Catherine Tobin
On 27th March 2011, all residential househilds in the United Kingdom will be taking part in a census. Since 1801 a day has been chosen every ten years for this purpose. The census provides an excellent source of information about the populaton. This enables central and local government, health authorities and many other organisations to identify need for housing, education, health and transport services fo ryears to come.
Did you know that supermarkets use census statistics to work out the kind of foods they need to sell to keep local communities stock up with their faviourites? Water companies use the census data to plan the pipes for clean and wastewater - to make sure there's enough for everyone. Fire brigades and the police use census data to help communities, putting fire alarms and crime prevention measures in specific areas. The benefits are far reaching.
The census statistics also feed into the allocation of funding for local authorities and play a major part in identifying need for local services in communities, so it is crucial the population estimate is as accurate as possible. When the questionnaire envelope comes through the door you'll easily recognise it by the purpose 2011 Census logo. Take cae of it. If, like many people, you want to complete the questionnaire online, your individual internet code is o the front of the questionnaire.
The 2011 Census doesn't want anyone to e left out - so there is a wide range of help options available (such as language guidance booklets, large print format, Text Relay and census field staff on hand, as well as online help and telephone call centres).
More information about the 2011 Census can be found at: www.census.gov.uk
Online Help at www.census.gov.uk (English and Welsh)
Census Helpline, in 56 languages
England: 0300 0201 101 (from 4th March 2011)
Wales: 0300 0201 130 (from 4th March 2011)
Text Relay (for people with hearing impairment): 18001 0300 0201 160 (from 4th March 2011)
Materials in large print and Braille formats from www.census.gov.uk (English and Welsh)
Video and audio assistance at www.census.gov.uk (English and Welsh)