Ready, Steady, Census
The Census is taking place in March 2021.
It’s a survey that happens every ten years and gives us a picture of all the people and households in England and Wales. It is run by the Office for National Statistics.
Every single household in the country will take part.
The Census asks questions about each person who lives in the household. It can be completed online or, where you don’t have access to the internet, on paper.
Everyone is asked the same questions on the same day so that a snapshot of the population can be taken at one point in time.
The results are used by the government to work out how much money each local council is given each year; how much money is given to -
- health services
- the police
- other local services
The results are also used to plan the services and resources people need such as -
- transport
- housing
- healthcare
- education
It is vital in securing the funding for the public services that we need and that we deserve. In 2011, there was an initial undercount of around 8% - this could have cost Hull over £90 million.
From big projects like -
- The City of Culture
- Hull Maritime Project
- Bonus Arena
- Fruit Market
- Humber Street
- Trinity Market
to smaller projects like the refurbishment of -
- East Park splash boat
- Beverley Road Baths
- Pearson Park
all of these used Census information as part of their bids.
Information from the Census is also important in helping lots of other people and organisations do their work -
- charities and voluntary organisations use Census data to get funding
- it helps businesses to understand their customers and for example decide where to open new shops
- those doing research, like university students
- people looking into their family history, use Census data
So a successful Census is a key component in Hull’s future success.
All of the information collected in the Census remains confidential and anonymous, and no-one will know about you personally from the Census.
Government departments cannot see an individual’s Census information and it cannot be used to influence things like -
- benefit claims
- resident applications
- immigration status
- taxes
Private organisations and individuals such as landlords or employers will also not have access to personal information.
The results are kept under lock and key for 100 years.
How it works
In March, households in Hull will receive a Census invitation pack in the post.
This will include an access code and instructions to complete the questionnaire online.
The Census will take around ten minutes per person to complete. It’s easy to do and can be done on any device, including -
- computer
- laptop
- tablet
- mobile phone
Some households may receive a paper questionnaire in areas where they are likely to need one. You can request a paper questionnaire if you need one.
Census field staff will visit households who do not return their Census forms to give help and support.
If you have concerns about field staff entering your property during the COVID-19 pandemic, please note that the field officers will never need to enter your house. Field officers will be working in the same way as a postal or food delivery visit. They will be wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and working in line with government guidance.
What you will be asked
The Census will include questions about -
- gender
- age
- work
- health
- education
- household size
- ethnicity
In 2021, to reflect the changing society we live in today, the Census will ask questions on three new topics -
- previous service in the UK Armed Forces
- gender identity
- sexual orientation
Only people aged 16 and over will be asked about their sexual orientation and gender identity and these questions are entirely voluntary, so no one will be forced to answer if they do not want to.
Anyone over 16 can anonymously request an individual questionnaire and give their answers separately from other members of their household if they wish.
Help to complete the Census
Everyone should get the support they need to take part in the Census, including -
- support in different languages and formats for example large print
- local Census Support Centres with trained staff and online access
- a dedicated contact centre to give help over the phone and through
- webchat
- social media
- text message
- field staff visiting households that have not yet responded
- the option to request paper surveys
Your Census invitation pack will include information on how to access this help and support via the dedicated Census helpline on 08001 412 021. The following will also be available from Monday 1 March 2021 -
- web chat
- social media
- text message
Access further information on the Census website
This help will include -
- the option to request a paper version of the survey
- support in different languages and formats such as large print
- details of specialist local Census support centres offering help and support here in Hull
Field staff will also be out and about in Hull offering support to households who have not yet returned their survey.
We will also provide further details of local support here as information becomes available.
Census Jobs
Temporary job opportunities are available in Hull to help carry out and support the census.
These range from managers and supervisors who co-ordinate activities, to officers who help the public complete questionnaires.
A variety of full-time and part-time opportunities are available, and all roles require the flexibility to work evenings and weekends.
Find out more about the census job opportunities in Hull
If you are concerned about working for the Census during the COVID-19 pandemic, you can find out more about how the Census will keep staff safe both during the hiring process and whilst they carry out their work.
Further information
Find out more about census 2021
You can follow the Census on social media -
Find out more information on the Office for National Statistics