It’s time to complete the Census

Census Day, 21 March 2021, is literally around the corner and the preparations are in full swing in Ceredigion.

The letters, including the unique access codes, have all gone out and responses are already coming in.

A successful Census will help give the best picture of the needs of everyone living in Wales and England. 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 start on their work 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.

Students: complete the Census for your university address

Wherever you’re currently staying, from halls to your old bedroom at home, you should fill in a Census for your university address.

The information you give informs decisions that affect student life, such as university campus bus links and bike lanes, jobs and training

If you’re staying at home temporarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you should be included on a Census form at your university address and at your home address. You will need to obtain your individual access code for your term-time address (university address) by visiting the Census Support for Students webpage.

If you’re not going to return to your university address at all, you only need to be included on the Census for your permanent home address.

An inclusive Census

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.

In Wales, households will also be asked a specific question about their Welsh language skills. And those who wish to complete the Census in Welsh can do so both online and in paper form. There are “Cymraeg” and “English” buttons to switch between languages at any time online, and on paper you can use Welsh and English on the same form.

Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.

Support to complete the Census

You can complete the Census online by using the unique access code from your Census Pack.

If you require help, you can call the general Census Contact Centre on 0800 169 2021. You can also call the Local Census Support Centre in Aberystwyth Town Library on 01545 572377 or email library@ceredigion.gov.uk.

In addition, the Census Engagement Manager will be available to offer support. Find out more on the Council’s website: Ceredigion and the Census.

Further information is available on the Census website or visit Ceredigion County Council’s webpage.