What is the Census?
The Census provides a complete picture of our nation. It counts the number of people living in each city, town and country area. It tells us about each area and its population, including the balance of young and old, what jobs people do, and the type of housing they live in. In Scotland a Census is conducted every ten years and the next full Census is to be held in 2011. At this time you are being asked to answer questions on a Census Test Form. For more information on the Census visit the Census pages on this website.
Every 10 years since 1801 the UK has undertaken a major examination on the population – called a Census. This is a vast collection of information of people and households. The latest Census was held on Sunday 29 April 2001. The information lets central and local Government and many other organisations direct their resources more effectively and plan for the future. Typical questions relate to: household accommodation demographic characteristics (e.g. sex, age, marital status) health and provision of care qualifications employment journey to work. For more information on statistics, please visit the UK Statistics Authority’s website.
Answer The Census is a complete count of all the people and households in the Country on a specific day. Since 1801, every 10 years the nation has set aside one day for the Census. It is the most complete source of information about the population that this Country produces. The most recent Census was held on Sunday 29 April 2001. Every effort is made to include everyone, and that is why the Census is so important. It is the only survey which provides a detailed picture of the entire population, and is unique because it covers everyone at the same time and asks the same core questions everywhere, making it easy to compare different parts of the country. The information the Census provides allows central and local Government, health authorities and many other organisations to target their resources more effectively and to plan housing, education, health and transport services for years to come. In England and Wales, the Census is planned and carried out by the Office for National Statis
