It is hugely important that the voices of carers, people looking after family members and friends, are heard and that the importance of their role is understood. This year gives a very important opportunity for the number of carers, and their situations to be officially recognised.
Census 2021 inform decisions on services that shape our communities, such as healthcare, education and transport. The census findings are used by the government and many other organisations.
The opportunity only comes around once every 10 years to complete the census in England and Wales. So these figures will provide a very important update. There is a specific question asking about whether you look after, or give help or support to, someone else.
This census provides an opportunity for the government and others to get a more accurate and up to date figure for the number of carers. This will also help their contribution be better understood.
Caring Together chief executive Miriam Martin said, “We support the messages that are being given in encouraging as many people as possible to complete the survey. Having a more complete picture of how many people have a caring role, in looking after a family member of friend, could help make a big difference.
“The information could help central government, local government and many others understand the needs of communities, including carers, more accurately. They can then better recognise their needs when planning and funding services.”
Because these things matter to us all, everyone needs to complete the census. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) runs the census in England and Wales and is independent from government. Your details are protected by law and information published is always anonymous.
Census Day is Sunday 21 March 2021. You can fill yours in online as soon as you get your access code in the post. If your household circumstances change on Census Day, you can let the ONS know.
Everyone should have the support they need to fill in the census. If you, or anyone you know, needs help, there’s a wide range of support services available.
These include a contact centre that can give you help over the phone and guidance in a range of languages and accessible formats, including paper questionnaires and large print.
If you need help or have any questions, visit census.gov.uk
Or see @Census2021 on social media.
