The census is a survey that happens every 10 years and gives us a picture of all the people and households in England and Wales. The next census takes place on Sunday 21 March 2021. It takes about 10 minutes to complete the household questions and 10 minutes per person.

This census will be the first one to be completed digitally where this is possible, using a personal code. Answers to the census questions helps organisations make decisions on planning and funding public services, including transport, education and healthcare. Census 2021 will also provide fresh information to improve our understanding of the pandemic and what people's needs are as communities try to recover. It will help to make sure that services meet the needs of our changing society as we recover.