About the census : Why you should take part in the census

It’s important you take part in the census. The information it gives has the power to make a real impact on our everyday lives.

The census is vital to all of us

The census helps us understand what our society needs now and what it’s likely to need in the future. The information it collects helps plan and fund services in your area. This could include transport, education and healthcare.

Charities also use census information to help get the funding they need. Businesses use it to decide where to set up, which creates job opportunities.

Its success could help you

Census 2021 will help give the best picture of the needs of everyone living in England and Wales.

A total of 94% of people took part in the last census, helping each area receive its share of public funding. Without the census, it would be much more difficult to provide the services you and your community need.

You must complete the census by law

You must complete the census by law. If you do not, or if you supply false information, you could be fined up to £1,000. Some questions are clearly labelled as voluntary. It is not an offence if you do not answer these.