Households across Swindon will soon be asked to take part in Census 2021. The official census date is 21 March.

The census is a survey that gives us the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It will include questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. Rest assured that while overall results will be available within 12 months, all personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.

This will be the first one run predominantly online, with all households receiving a letter in early March with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets. It will, however, still be possible to complete a paper questionnaire if you prefer.

There will be more information available over the next month through both national and local media campaigns. In the meantime, if you are interested in finding out more, visit census.gov.uk. If you run a local community group or organisation and would like more information for your website or newsletter or if you are holding any online events or meetings, you can also contact me as the Census Engagement Manager for Swindon.