Census Day 2021 is fast approaching and households across Wolverhampton will soon receive a 16-character access code in the post which they will need to complete the document online.

The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives us the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941.

This year’s Census will be the first run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets.

Tim Johnson, chief executive of City of Wolverhampton Council, said: "The Census really matters, it provides essential information which is used to make decisions which affect us all. It will play a big part in the amount of Government funding Wolverhampton receives in future and the more resources we have, the easier it will be to recover and relight our city after the pandemic.

“The Census is your opportunity to ensure that you and your household is represented in statistics which are then used to paint the most accurate picture of the nation, making sure the needs of communities are understood and resources are allocated appropriately. Therefore it is so vitally important that everyone completes the Census so that the data gathered is accurate and reflects the true picture."

Iain Bell, deputy national statistician at the Office for National Statistics, said: “A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed.

“This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part and we have made it easier for people to do so online on any device, with help and paper questionnaires for those that need them.”

Census day will be on March 21, but households across the country will receive letters with online codes allowing them to take part from early March.

The census will include questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. And, for the first time, there will be a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.

Sundeep Dhadley is the local Census Engagement Manager for Wolverhampton and can be contacted by email at sundeep.dhadley30@field.census.gov.uk

For more information, visit www.census.gov.uk.