Census 2021 will be open from Census Day on March 21, with Sefton Council encouraging all of its eligible residents to take part and shape how key services are delivered to local communities for years to come, including in healthcare, education and transport.

Sefton is a borough for everyone – the census, which takes place every ten years, will provide a detailed snapshot like no other of every household in the area, as it does throughout England and Wales.

Carried out by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), the census has taken place every decade since 1801, with 2021 a landmark year as it moves predominantly online – households should expect a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets.

The census, which covers participants’ sex, age, work, health, education, household size, ethnicity, time served in the armed forces and optional questions on sexual orientation and gender identity, will mean every resident over 16 will play an important role and make a difference, in some way, to everyone in Sefton.

The information they provide will helping key decision makers to understand the needs of their community and where public funding is needed, whether that be investment in new schools, doctor’s surgeries, bike lanes and much more besides.

Both the council and ONS have moved to reassure residents about the way their data is being used. The ONS is completely independent of Government, meaning officials cannot see your information, which, including your anonymity, is protected by law. In fact, no one will be able to see any personal information you have shared for a further 100 years.

To make sure all Sefton residents can successfully complete the Census on March 21 when they receive their unique access code, in line with local authority areas across England and Wales, Sefton will be supported by its own Census Engagement Manager, David Yorke.

Leader of Sefton Council, Cllr Ian Maher, said:

“The census is incredibly useful to us in Sefton, helping us to build a picture of the communities we serve in a borough for everyone, so please take part on Census Day.

“It is important that if you’re eligible, you complete the census in the same high numbers we saw in 2011.

“The move to a mainly digital process is welcome, but this won’t suit everyone. The ONS have made sure there is support available so no one is left out. This includes help over the phone from a dedicated contact centre, as well as guidance in a range of accessible formats, such as paper questionnaires and large print. Please also be reassured that your data is completely safe.”