Census 2021: Does the Government run the census? Can it access the data?
CENSUS 2021 will compel people to provide their information in a countrywide survey this week. Does the Government run the census?
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Census 2021 has already started, with households around the UK now receiving prompts in the post. They will have to fill in information about themselves and those who live with them. These details can end up playing a part in helping to improve their lives.
Does the Government run the census?
The census sees households in every home nation contribute a selection of personal details.
The information provided can then go on to inform changes to local authorities.
While it may seem invasive, the details provided via the census aren't shared far and wide.
READ MORE: What is the Census - how often do you need answer questions?
Independent agencies conduct the survey and compile its results every ten years.
The following organisations are responsible for the census:
- The Office for National Statistics (ONS)
- The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA)
- The National Records of Scotland (NRS)
These agencies aren't government-run, whether central or devolved.
Only select officers in these organisations can handle the information once collected.
But the data can help organisations and authorities with their decision making.
According to the ONS, information from the census helps local authorities across England and Wales.
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Census data reveals how groups of people act together, which helps authorities do the following:
- Develop local policies
- Plan and run services
- Decide how to allocate public funds
The ONS can provide census information to other organisations which request it.
They may include the following:
- Businesses
- Volunteer organisations
- Academics and students
- The general public
- Genealogists
The ONS does not provide salespeople or decision-makers with the personal information of individuals.