What is the census?

the census is a uk-wide survey that that happens every 10 years. the information you give in the census helps provide the best picture of the needs of everyone in england and wales.

Your answers to the census questions gives the government a clear picture of the size and needs of communities. It also helps organisations make decisions on planning and funding public services in your area, including transport, education and healthcare.

It's completely confidential and there's no way you can be identified from the published statistics. At the moment there isn't accurate information about the size of the LGBTQ+ population at a national and local level.

How do I take part?

You'll receive a letter with a code that you enter to start the census online. the letter will have more information on how to take part.

Every household should complete the census on Sunday 21st March 2021 or as soon as possible after.

The census should take about 10 minutes for the household questions and 10 minutes per person.

for the first time, voluntary questions on sexual orientation and gender identity will be included in the census. the data collected from the census will help improve policies and services for the lgbtq+ community. help make history this year by completing your census form on 21st march and be #proudtobecounted.

Questions are voluntary and any information that you provide will remain completely confidential and will be collected and managed by ONS (Office for National Statistics). You can also request to answer your questions separately from your household by visiting the ONS website. No one in your household will know that you have requested a separate code.

If you’re homeless, staying at hostel or shelter ( regularly or temporarily) or staying at someone’s home on 21 March you can still complete the Census. If you have a mobile phone you can also text ONS to 08001412021 and they’ll send you a code to complete it online. Visit the ONS website for more information on how you can complete your Census form if you’re homeless.

Update: ONS’ guidance on the sex question has changed as of 17th March. Find out more from Gendered Intelligence

There is a question that asks 'what is your sex?' - here you will have to select either ‘male’ or ‘female’. ONS guidance on this question has recently changed - find out more from Gendered Intelligence.

You will then have the option to self-describe in a later question where you can then write non-binary, intersex, etc and will not have to go by what is on your official documents.

If you need help to complete the form you can also contact ONS at 08001412021, or if you have access to the internet you can speak to an ONS advisor on web chat.

Please get in touch with us if you need help to fill in your form and you are 16-25, LGBTQ+ and homeless or living in a hostile environment.

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