Census forms sent out

Census on doormat

If it hasn’t already, your Census questionnaire will drop through your letterbox any day now so get ready to set aside a few minutes to help shape the future of Rochdale.

The distinctive purple and white envelopes began their journey to around 26 million households in England and Wales last week (Monday 7 March). By Census day on March 27 every household will have one – and everyone is required to complete the questionnaire or they face the risk of a £1,000 fine.

Taken every ten years, the Census provides a snapshot of the country. The information supplied enables authorities to plan properly for everything from school places and housing to roads and emergency services. Private businesses and the voluntary sector also use the information to make decisions about their future priorities.

Councillor Peter Williams, Rochdale Borough Council Cabinet Member for Corporate Management and Economic Regeneration, said: “The Census will help us plan for the future. Given the pressures we are under at the moment it’s more important than ever that we understand the future needs of people that live in the borough so we can target funding effectively.”

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) runs the Census every ten years. The questionnaire can be completed securely online via the census website at www.census.gov.uk, or on paper and posted back in the pre-paid envelope.

The questionnaire gathers information about where people live and work and general lifestyle questions, helping provide information that can be used to help to build a profile of the economy and the facilities and services used and needed.

Pam Smith, Executive Director at the council, said:”It takes about ten minutes to complete the questionnaire for each person. Often one person fills it in on behalf of the entire household, which is fine.

“People often worry that the information they provide will be shared with other organisations but that is not the case. The personal information that people provide to the ONS such as name, address and date of birth is kept completely confidential for 100 years and is protected by law. It’s not shared with other government departments or local authorities.

“I’d urge everyone to complete the Census questionnaire on 27 March or as soon as possible afterwards.”

There are events taking place locally for anyone that needs help to complete their questionnaire. Details will be available on the council’s website at www.rochdale.gov.uk/census or people can call the national helpline on 0300 0201 101.