Social action Get Prepared: The census is taking place in March 2021! The census is a survey that happens every 10 years and gives us a picture of all the people and households in England and Wales. It helps plan and fund public services, like transport, education and healthcare. Why does it matter? Gives the most detailed information we have about our society, it tells us what our needs are now, and what they’re likely to be in the future Helps organisations like councils shape policy, allocate resources, plan services, and monitor equality in your local area and across England and Wales Informs where funding is spent over the next 10 years on things like housing, transport, education and health What does the Census ask? The information we collect during the census helps us to create an in-depth picture of our society. It’ll also identify important trends that’ll help organisations plan services and allocate funding in the future To achieve this, the census asks questions on a range of topics, including information about individuals, such as their name, age, sex and marital status; households, such as family relationships; the homes we live in, such as their location, number of people living there and what facilities they have How you can help Spreading the word by sharing information via your preferred channels, including social media, meetings, and printed or digital information materials Inviting the Census Engagement Manager (see below) to participate in meetings where possible, so they can explain the census and its importance to your community / members Helping the census team connect to other groups and individuals in your community to help us increase awareness Discussing your questions and concerns about the Census with the census team on an ongoing basis, so these can be addressed and obstacles overcome More information Vanessa Fagan | Census Engagement Manager North Southwark 07452 935279 | [email protected] Find out more at www.census.gov.uk