2011 Census: Help Tomorrow Take Shape

Your views will help identify need for housing, education, health and transport services for years to come

On 27 March 2011 all residential households in the UK will be taking part in a census.

Since 1801 a day has been chosen every ten years for this purpose (except in 1941 during the war). The census provides an excellent source of information about the population. This enables central and local government, health authorities and many other organisations to identify need for housing, education, health and transport services for years to come.

The census statistics feed into the allocation of funding for local authorities and play a major part in identifying need for local services in communities, so it is crucial the population estimate is as accurate as possible. The police, fire brigades and water companies use census data to plan their services and to help communities – and supermarkets use census statistics to work out the kind of foods they need to sell to keep local communities stocked up with their favourites. The benefits are far reaching.

When the questionnaire envelope comes through the door you’ll easily recognise it by the purple 2011 Census logo. Take care of it. If, like many people, you want to complete the questionnaire online, your individual internet code is on the front of the questionnaire.

Whatever you tell the census will be in strictest confidence and will only be used to produce statistics. Your personal information will not be shared with any other government department or organisation. There's also a wide range of help available: language guidance booklets, large print format, Text Relay and census field staff on hand, as well as online help and a telephone helpline – 0300 0201 101 (local rate).

More information about the 2011 Census can be found at: www.census.gov.uk

March 7, 2011