There’s still time to take part in the census

There’s still time to take part in the census

There is still time for residents across the Wychavon District to fill in the census questionnaire.

Census Day, which was on Sunday March 21, marked the day that millions of people across England and Wales completed key questions about themselves and their households to ensure local services in every community are informed by the best information possible.

For those who have not yet submitted their online or paper questionnaires or have maybe misplaced their invitation letter, there is lots of help available.

A new unique access code can be requested online and there is face-to-face assistance at local Census Support Centres.

Field officers are also calling at households who have not completed their census. They will follow social distancing and COVID-safe guidelines, supporting people to take part. They will be equipped with PPE and will never need to enter anyone’s home.

The results from the census will shed light on the needs of different groups and communities, and the inequalities people are experiencing. This is to ensure the big decisions facing the country following the pandemic and EU exit are based on the best information possible, through the anonymised answers provided.

The Office of National Statistics will never share personal details and no-one, including government bodies, will be able to identify anyone in census statistics. Personal census records will be kept secure for 100 years, and only then can future generations view it.

Cllr Bradley Thomas, Leader of Wychavon District Council, said: “There is still time to take part in the census and we encourage those who haven’t done so to fill it out as soon as possible. There is plenty of support available for those who need it both online and offline. The census is so important, and it only takes ten minutes out of your day to complete.”

If the census is not completed, there is a risk of a fine of up to £1,000.

To complete the census, and to find out how to get help, please visit www.census.gov.uk or call 0800 141 2021.