Hackney Counts - the 2011 Census
Hurry - the deadline for returning your form is 6 May
If you haven't already filled in and returned your census form, you must do so by 6 May, after this compliance officers from the Office for National Statistics will be visiting households who have not returned a form and could potentially issue a £1000 fine.
If you haven't received a form or need a replacement form, you can request one online www.census.gov.uk/ or by calling the census helpline 03000 2011 01 (this will cost no more than a local call regardless of the type of phone you use or who your provider is).
Find out how to get help if you are having trouble filling in your form
What is the census?
The census takes place across England and Wales every ten years. As well being a count of an area's overall population, it also gathers a range of information on health, national identity, citizenship, ethnic background, education, second homes, language, religion and marital status.
Why is it so important to complete and return your census form?
Hackney, like all other local authorities, relies on census population statistics to identify local needs for public services. It is a key means for local government, health authorities and other organisations to target resources where they are needed and plan housing, education, health and transport services for the borough. It is also used to plan services needed by specific community or faith groups.
Central government funding for our borough is directly linked to how many people live here, so even if the census count were to end up just a few households short, it could mean a real difference to people's lives.
The 2001 census saw a low questionnaire return rate in the borough - only 72%. That meant the area lost out on millions of pounds of funding every year. This is why it's so vital we get an accurate count.
For more information on the census, visit: www.census.gov.uk
Is the information you give confidential?
The information you include on your form is completely confidential and won't be shared with Hackney Council or any organisation or government department, no matter what your circumstances.
Can I fill my form in online?
Yes. For the first time you can fill your form in online, simply visit: www.census.gov.uk
What help is available?
If you need assistance filling in your form, there is plenty of help available.
You can call the Census helpline (from 4 March): 03000 201 101 (this will cost no more than a national call no matter which telephone provider you are with) text relay service 1800 1 0300 0201 160.
Get help in your local library: If you want to fill in your form online but do not have access to a computer at home, you can use a dedicated PC in your local library (except Woodberry Down) for self-completion. Just drop in at any time.
If you need assistance, you can also book a session where a member of library staff can give you support. You must book an appointment for this. Either call 020 8356 2539 or visit your nearest library.
For everything you need to know about the census and why it matters to you, visit the Census website: www.census.gov.uk
Page updated: 21 Apr 2011
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