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On 27th March 2011, all residential
households in the United Kingdom will be taking part in a census. Since
1801, a day has been chosen every ten years for this purpose (except in
1941 during the war). The census provides an excellent source of
information about the population. This enables central and local
government, health authorities and many other organisations to identify
need for housing, education, health and transport services for years to
come.
The census statistics also feed into the allocation of funding for local
authorities and play a major part in identifying need for local services
in communities, so it is crucial the population estimate is as accurate
as possible. As well as schools, housing and hospitals, this has an
impact on everyday life such as ensuring that the streets are cleaned
and in good repair; that parks are kept in good condition and open for
all to enjoy; that the refuse is collected. All things that go towards
making the borough a safe and pleasant place to live and work.
Also, did you know that supermarkets use census statistics to work out
the kind of foods they need to sell to keep local communities stocked up
with their favourites? Water companies use the census data to plan the
pipes for clean and waste water – to make sure there’s enough for
everyone. Fire brigades and the police use census data to help
communities, putting fire alarms and crime prevention measures in
specific areas. The benefits are far reaching.
Importantly, the census should be filled in by all residents, not just
by citizens. In the last census in 2001, it was felt that many non-UK
citizens mistakenly believed that it did not apply to them and, in not
filling in the form, their community was under-represented.
When the questionnaire envelope comes through the door it will be easily
recognised it by the purple 2011 Census logo. For the first time in
2011, the census questionnaire will be able to be completed online and
an individual internet code is on the front of the questionnaire.
The 2011 Census doesn’t want anyone to fall behind – so there is a wide
range of help options available such as language guidance booklets,
large print format, Text Relay and census field staff on hand, as well
as online help and telephone call centres.
More information about the 2011 Census can be found at:
www.census.gov.uk
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