The census is coming. By taking part, you can help inform decisions on services that shape your community, such as healthcare, education and transport.The census is a unique survey that happens every 10 years. It gives a snapshot of all the people and households in England and Wales – the most detailed information we have about our society.

Its important that you fill in your  census questionnaire. Without the information you share, it would be more difficult to understand our community’s needs and to plan and fund public services. In one way or another, your information touches the lives of every single person living in England and Wales, whether its through using census information to plan new schools, doctors’ surgeries or bike lanes.

Because these things matter to us all, everyone needs to complete the census. Do not worry, government officials dealing with applications you have made or payments or services you receive cannot see it. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) runs the census in England and Wales and is independent from government. Your details are protected by law and information published is always anonymous. 

Census Day is Sunday 21 March 2021. 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.

Everyone should have the support they need to fill in the census. If you, or anyone you know, needs help, there is a wide range of support services available. These include a contact centre that can give you help over the phone and guidance in a range of languages and accessible formats, including paper questionnaires and large print.

If you need help or have any questions, visit www.census.gov.uk.

We will publish further information over the next few months.