The census 2021 is in March
The census 2021 takes place on 21 March, but you will receive an invitation letter to take part from early March.
What is the Census 2021?
The census is a once-in-a-decade survey run by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) that gives an accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out every decade since 1801, except in 1941 (during WWII).
This year, the survey includes questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. There will also be a question about whether you have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over about sexual orientation and gender identity.
Why is it so important to take part?
Organisations, such as local councils and charities, use the census results to make plans and decide how to prioritise their budgets. The more people who fill in the survey, the more accurate their decisions will be.
It is so important for everyone to be represented in this census that the ONS has made it compulsory for everyone in England and Wales to take part.
How to take part
Between 1 March and 21 March, you will receive a letter containing instructions on how to complete the survey. The unique access code in this letter will enable you to fill in the survey on your computer, phone or tablet.
If you cannot or do not wish to fill in the survey online, you will be able to fill in a paper survey instead.
Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.