NI 2021 Census goes live
It is expected the majority of people will complete this year's survey digitally
Northern Ireland's 2021 Census, which has been launched today (Monday), can now be completed online.
The ten yearly survey is normally completed by paper form, but it is expected the majority of people will submit it digitally this year.
What is the Census?
The official Census Day for 2021 is March 21, though households are able to complete their returns before then.
It is a survey that around 840,000 households across the country are legally required to complete every ten years.
The data collected from the sampling is used to shape public policy and distribute resources, funding, and services.
The questionnaire asks a range of questions including people’s religion and sexual orientation.
Included in this year’s census are a range of new questions including one on renewable energy.
How can I complete the 2021 Census online?
Census packs are being sent to addresses across NI from today (Monday), which are all due to arrive by Saturday.
They each contain an access code to enable people to complete it online.
The first tranche of results are expected to be published in June 2022.
Data considered significant to NI’s constitutional future - regarding religious background and national identity - will be published in a second tranche of information in the autumn of 2022.
Do I have to complete the survey online?
Households will have the option of completing the survey in traditional paper format if desired, though they have to proactively request one.
Census field staff will conduct visits to properties that have not completed their forms.
Those visits will take place under strict social distancing conditions to reflect the current Covid-19 emergency.
While the timeline for the publication of the findings is in line with previous censuses, organisers had originally hoped the results could be published some months earlier than summer 2022.
Social distancing restrictions on staff processing the returns mean that earlier publication target will not now be achievable.
Siobhan Carey is NI's Registrar General.
She said: “It is important that everyone takes part in the Census, which provides an accurate picture of the people of Northern Ireland.
“The information gathered in the Census will be used by Government to help plan provision for health, education, transport and so much more.''
“The Census form is very easy to complete, taking less than 20 minutes per household and the results will help determine funding and services for the next ten years.
“Over the next few days, each household will receive in the post their invitation to take part.
“This will have an access code to enable the public to complete their census return online at census.gov.uk/ni
“You don't have to wait until 21st March, once you receive your Census pack through the post, simply go to census.gov.uk/ni to complete the information for your household.
“While we would strongly encourage people to complete their Census online, paper forms are still available for those that need one.
“Our Census teams will be available to advise anyone who needs additional support.''
Ms Carey stressed the importance of the census.
She added: “Just like managing our own households, only if you know the characteristics of the population can you make good decisions about the allocation of funds and services.
“The information gathered in the Census will be used by Government to help plan provision for health, education, transport and so much more.''
For more information visit census.gov.uk/ni or call the Census contact centre on 0800 328 2021.
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