There is still time to complete Census 2021

The majority of people across England and Wales have now responded to Census 2021, completing key questions about themselves and their households to ensure local services in every community are informed by the best information possible.

However, for those who have not yet submitted their online or paper questionnaires or have misplaced their invitation letter, there is lots of help available. This can be accessed via the census website at www.census.gov.uk or by calling the national helpline which is 0800 141 2021.

In Swindon, there is also telephone support available from the local Census Support Centre which is being run by Voluntary Action Swindon. They can be contacted on 01793 466650 or at census@vas-swindon.org.

Field officers from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) are now calling at households who have not completed their census. They will follow social distancing and COVID-safe guidelines, supporting people to take part, but will not be entering people’s homes.

Phil Sooben, the ONS Census Engagement Manager for Swindon, said: “The response rate for Swindon in the last census in 2011 was 95% so it would be great if we could match or even beat that figure this time.”

Simon Phillips, Head of Data, Performance and Insight at Swindon Borough Council, said: “The more people who complete the census, the better picture we will have of our community so we can make sure local services meet the needs of our residents. If you haven’t already completed the census, please make sure you spare ten minutes to do so – it’s quick and easy, and there’s plenty of support available to make sure everyone is able to complete it.”

The results from the census will shed light on the needs of different groups and communities and the challenges and inequalities people are experiencing, helping to inform the most important decisions facing the country following the pandemic and EU exit.

All responses are anonymous and confidential and the ONS will never share your personal details. No one, including government bodies, will be able to identify individuals in census statistics. Personal census records will be kept secure for 100 years and only then can future generations view them.

Anyone who does not complete the census may have to pay a fine of up to £1,000.

For more information, please visit www.census.gov.uk.