With the big day literally around the corner, Census 2021 is in full swing in the borough and letters have dropped through people’s letterboxes containing their unique access codes.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is already reporting a fabulous response and is appealing for everyone who hasn’t filled in their forms to get filling. The big day will be marked in style with Trafford Town Hall being lit up in purple to mark the occasion on March 21.
“A successful census will help give the best picture of the needs of everyone living in England and Wales,” Iain Bell, deputy national statistician at the Office for National Statistics, said.
“It helps us understand what our society needs now and what it will likely need in the future. We’ve had a fantastic response so far, with so many of you completing the questionnaire on your laptops, phones and computers. It takes just 10 minutes per person to take part and if you can’t get online, there are paper forms available for those who need them. Now is the time to make your mark on history.”
Operating in line with the Government’s latest Covid-19 guidance, field officers will be deployed across the country to contact those who have not responded. They will offer help and advice to those who need it. They will also remind people that their census response is required by law.
This census is the most inclusive yet. Everyone can identify as they wish using search as you type online and write-in options on paper if they need it.
The questionnaire includes questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. And, for the first time, there will be a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Cllr Mike Freeman, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Covid 19 Recovery and Reform, said:
“I would urge everyone to get on board with the census - It is absolutely vital that everyone fills in their forms. Population statistics are important to our country - nationally, locally and within communities – and give an updated picture on the shape of the country.
The information helps our communities in so many ways and underpin both planning and provision of public services. It is so easy to do – and takes just ten minutes to complete. Don’t forget, help is also available if you need it. Thank you to everyone who has taken part so far – and enjoy Census Day!”
The information from the Census is used by a variety of groups and organisations. Indeed, Trafford Council uses it for strategic planning purposes, like providing new housing, and other developments including the building of new schools.
Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.
To complete your census, and to find out how you can get help, please visit census.gov.uk or call 0800 141 2021.
Census facts
At the time of the last census, ten years ago…
- 226,578 people lived in Trafford
- There were 52,773 dependent children
- Ireland (3,620 residents) was the top country of birth other than UK
- There were 310 different ethnicities in the area
- Sales and retail assistants was the most common occupation – there were 5,178 of them
- There were also 1,824 medical practitioners, 1,741 cleaners and domestics, 260 sports coaches, instructors and officials and 168 sports players
- 67,208 residents drove to work in a car or van
Posted on Tuesday 16th March 2021