On 27 March 2011 all residential households in the United Kingdom will be taking part in a census. Since 1801 a day has been chosen every ten years for this purpose. The census provides an excellent source of information about the population. This enables central and local government, health authorities and many other organisations to plan housing, education, health and transport services for years to come.

The census statistics feed into the allocation of funding for local authorities and play a major part in their ability to provide local services, so it is crucial the population estimate is as accurate as possible. When the questionnaire envelope comes through the door you’ll easily recognise it by the purple 2011 Census logo. Take care of it. If, like many people, you want to complete the questionnaire online, your individual internet code is on the front of the questionnaire. The 2011 Census doesn’t want anyone to fall behind - so there is a wide range of help options available (such as language guidance booklets, large print format, Text Relay and census field staff on hand, as well as online help and telephone call centres).