Census 2021 is on its way

Households across Basingstoke and Deane are being urged to take part in Census 2021 next month.

The Census, which is run by the Office for National Statistics, is a once-in-a-decade survey that provides the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941.

Taking place on Sunday 21 March 2021, the survey provides information to all kinds of organisations, from councils and charities to healthcare providers, to help them deliver the services we all need, such as transport, education and healthcare.

This year’s survey will be the first digital-first Census and will be easy to complete on any device, with help and paper questionnaires available for those that need them.

Each household will receive a Census pack and instructions through the post in early March and residents needing support, help or translation services can access them, both online and by phone.

As well as questions around residents’ sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity, for the first time and to reflect the modern age we live in, there will be a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity. This will help shape services for veterans and further work around equality and diversity.

Basingstoke and Deane has previously had a great success rate in Census returns with a response rate of 97% in 2011, compared to 94% nationally.

Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Cllr Ken Rhatigan said: “I would encourage all our residents to complete their Census on 21 March 2021 to help us get an updated snapshot of the borough.

“Together with our Council Plan to 2024, the information provided will be crucial in helping us to shape services that make a real difference to people’s lives for the future and identifying the investment required to provide them.”

Iain Bell, Deputy National Statistician at the Office for National Statistics, added: “A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed.

“This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part and we have made it easier for people to do so online on any device, with help and paper questionnaires for those that need them.”

The Census results will be published in 2022. For more information, visit www.census.gov.uk/