The census is coming, and it makes a difference to everyone. By taking part and telling the Office for National Statistics (ONS) about yourself, you will help make sure you and your community get the services and support needed.
Its important you fill in your census questionnaire because the information you share affects the life of every single person living in England and Wales. The ONS wants to make sure the census informs us about all communities so that public services meet everyone’s needs.
Ethnicity, religion and national identity
The ONS will ask you about your ethnicity, religion and national identity. You can identify with your chosen background, religion and national identity. If you cannot find the option you require, you can use the search-as-you-type function. Alternatively, you can request a paper questionnaire. That will allow to you write in the identity that you feel most accurately represents you.
Sexual orientation and gender identity
Census 2021 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. It will help organisations combat any inequalities these groups face and show where services are needed. The ONS will only ask people aged 16 years and over these voluntary 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.
Armed Forces
For the first time, the census will ask if you’ve served in the UK Armed Forces. The information you share will help the ONS understand the numbers, locations and ages of our armed forces community. This will show where resources and services are needed to make sure those who have served, and their families, are treated fairly. You only need to answer this question if you are aged 16 years or above.
Census Day is Sunday 21 March. You can fill yours in online as soon as you get your access code in the post. If your household circumstances change on Census Day, you can let the ONS know.
Remember, it’s up to you to decide how you would like to answer each question. Do it in the way that you feel best represents you.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help or advice, visit www.census.gov.uk.
