Census 2011

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The Office for National Statistics will carry out a census across England and Wales on Sunday 27 March 2011

The census is carried out every 10 years and is the only time every person and household is counted right across the UK.  It is a legal requirement to complete the census form.

Everyone is asked the same questions on the same day so that a 'snapshot' of the population can be taken. 

The census asks about work, health, national identity, citizenship, ethnic background, education, second homes, language, religion, marital status and so on. 

All the information you and your household provide in the census is in the strictest of confidence and will only be used to produce statistics.

Why does it matter?

Like all local authorities in England and Wales, South Derbyshire District Council relies on census population statistics to get the government funding we need for public services.  How much we get is directly related to how many and what kind of people the census says live in our area. So even if the census were to end up just a few households short, it could make a very real difference to people's lives.  The census needs to include everyone, everywhere and that is why everyone has to take part.

Completing the census

For the first time this year, if you prefer to, you will be able to complete the census online rather than by submitting it by post.

Your questionnaire will feature a web-link and a unique identifying number so that the Office for National Statistics knows you have completed the survey.

Completing the census by post or online, is a secure process, and the use of information gathered is strictly controlled to ensure no data that could identify you or your household.

You do not need to register for the census - forms will automatically be sent to you in March 2011.

Headline results from the 2011 census will be available from September 2012.

More information can be found on the Office for National Statistics website: www.ons.gov.uk .

The census needs everyone to take part in helping tomorrow to take shape - and this will be your chance to make a difference.

Want to help?

Recruitment for census jobs is currently taking place.   To find out more, visit their website www.censusjobs.co.uk. 

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