The 2021 Census begins this month, with information gathered being especially important as plans are made — both nationally and locally — for a post-pandemic, post-Brexit future.
A Census has been carried out every ten years since 1801 and the information gathered helps build a picture of life in the UK, crucial for future planning as well as being a vital tool for historians.
Census 2021 will be key to making sure the big decisions on the future of hospitals, schools, transport and other public services for people in South Birmingham, following the pandemic and EU exit, are based on the best information possible.
Every household in the UK will receive a letter from this week, asking them to complete a compulsory Census questionnaire, which can be completed online or on paper — or even over the phone for those with specific needs — up until Census Day 21st March 2021.
After this date, field staff will collect Census data on the doorsteps of any household who has not managed to complete their questionnaire.
For the first time in its 220 year history, the Census will ask if people have served in the UK Armed Forces to help understand the numbers, locations and ages of our armed forces community. This will show where resources and services are needed to make sure those who have served, and their families, are treated fairly.
Birmingham historian and Peaky Blinders biographer Carl Chinn said: “As a social historian, the Census is an invaluable resource, that brings into view individuals, families, and communities as well housing, streets, and districts. With regards to the forthcoming Census, yes it will be important for future historians but most pressingly, it will also be crucial for national and local government to understand demographic change and to (hopefully) plan effectively for the needs of the population.”
Alison Brinkworth, Census Community Engagement Manager for South Birmingham, said: “Information from the Census makes a difference to the life of every single person in Birmingham as Census data is used to plan things that are important in everyday lives for all our families, things like maternity services, apprenticeship schemes, new bus routes and support for veterans in the local area.
“Because these things matter to all of us, everyone must complete the census. But the data is made anonymous and personal information is locked away for 100 years, so it cannot be seen by government officials dealing with applications you’ve made or payments or services you receive.”
Leader of Birmingham City Council, Councillor Ian Ward, said: “Census information helps decide how vital services are planned and funded across Birmingham. So, whether it’s improving bus routes, schools, parks or NHS services locally, everyone benefits from taking part.
“These past twelve months have been immensely challenging, but we shouldn’t forget how important it is to stand up and be counted. I urge the people of Birmingham to fill in the questionnaire and help their communities to get the resources and services they need for the next 10 years and beyond.”
Completing your census questionnaire
- Census Day is on Sunday 21 March and ahead of this, the Office for National Statistics will send every household a letter in the post with an access code and instructions to complete the questionnaire online.
- Everyone can fill in their census questionnaire online as soon as they get the code but paper questionnaires can also be requested.
- To make it easier for everyone to take part, support is available for anyone who needs help in braille, British Sign Language, large print, easy read, language translations and more here: https://census.gov.uk/help/languages-and-accessibility
- The census can also be completed over the phone with assistance from trained staff via the ONS’ free phone contact centre
- The main census field operation is due to start after Census Day on 21 March, contacting those who have not responded. Field staff will be socially distanced, wear PPE and work in line with all
Get latest information by following @CensusBrumSouth on Twitter. To get help for groups in your area, contact Alison Brinkworth at alison.brinkworth86@field.census.gov.uk