The English Census: FAQs answered

10-03-2011

What is the Census?

The Census is a household questionnaire completed every ten years. It is from the Office of Statistics and is designed to help plan and fund services for the community – services like transport, education and health.

Who will receive a questionnaire?

The Census will be sent to every household in England shortly; some people may already have received one. Everyone should be included in a census, even those not permanently resident in the UK. It is compulsory to complete and if it is not completed or false information is given the occupant can face a fine.

Who is responsible for filling in the questionnaire?

The householder is responsible for ensuring that the questionnaire is completed and returned. The householder is the person who lives, or is present, at the address who;

• Owns/rents (or jointly owns/rents) the accommodation; and/or
• Is responsible (or jointly responsible) for paying the household bills and expenses.

I am only in the UK temporarily; do I have to fill in a questionnaire?

Yes, everyone should be included in the census – even those only in the UK for a short period of time.  

What if I am renting through a corporate let? Do I still have to fill in a questionnaire?

In the case of corporate lets the assignee will still be required to complete the questionnaire even though the company is technically the tenant renting.

How confidential is the information I give?

All personal information is protected by the Law so assignees should not be concerned that the information will be shared.

Where should I go for further information?

Everything is explained in the questionnaire but if they need further assistance they can visit the Census website: www.census.gov.uk or call the Census helpline: 0300 0201 101.