In the coming weeks, communities up and down the country will be hearing more about the upcoming Census and seeing the national campaign across TV, radio and social media channels.
Census 2021, taking place on Sunday 21st March will be the first to be run predominantly online with most households receiving a letter with a unique access code allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets.
The census is for everyone, and there’s simply nothing else that gives so much detail about us and the society we live in. Not only does it tell us about the current and future needs of our population, but in many years to come will give future generations a snapshot of what it was like to live in the UK in 2021.
At a time where many local authorities, voluntary organisations and businesses are having to make tough decisions about services, it’s more important than ever that your needs are represented. The information we gather from the census helps these and many other organisations plan for the future. For example, local governments use the information to help plan services, such as schools, hospitals and even rubbish collection in your area. Businesses use it to decide where to set up, which creates job opportunities. Charities also use census information to help get the funding they need. That’s why it is so important that Croydon is counted!
We have a local team working across Croydon with local groups and organisations to make sure that members of the community get the support, advice and information they need to take part. This ranges from meeting with local groups, providing leaflets and information in various languages, and as we move closer to Census Day creating opportunities to help people complete their surveys should they need it. Faiths Together in Croydon have kindly agreed to support us to reach faith groups across the borough as we know that many of you will have good and trusted relationships with all members of the community - some of whom may have specific barriers or concerns around the Census. We’ll publish dates and times on this website shortly but in the meantime please get in touch if you’d like us to come along to an event or send you more information.
The Census is an exciting time for us and so in the spirit of sharing and fun, why not download a crossword (created by a member of our wider team) that you might like to try. (The answers can also be downloaded)....
For more information about the Census visit https://census.gov.uk/ or get in touch with Dianne, Census Engagement Manager at dianne.jones02@field.census.gov.uk