90% of households complete 2021 Census

90% of households here have completed the Census with the vast majority choosing to do it online.

Census field staff will begin calling at houses this week to encourage the remaining households to complete the Census as soon as possible. 

Commenting on the response to date, Census Director, Dr David Marshall says:  “We have had a fantastic response so far with the vast majority of people choosing to complete the Census online.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has already completed their Census and urge anyone who hasn’t done so to complete it now and play their part in helping shape public services for the next decade.

“We have issued reminder letters to households which have not returned their Census information and field staff will now begin calling at households to follow up on outstanding returns.

“There’s still time to complete the Census online or by returning a paper questionnaire. If you need a little extra help, there is a wide range of language and accessibility support available.”

David adds:  “Everyone is required by law to complete the Census and by doing so, you will help government departments, businesses, charities and other organisations understand what our local areas need now and what they are likely to need in the future.”

The Census also captures information about vacant homes and these properties will have received either a paper questionnaire or an online access code.  If you have been unable to visit a holiday property you own, go to the Census website to order a new online access code so you can complete the Census for that property.

For more information and help on how to complete the Census website or call the Census contact centre on 0800 328 2021.

Notes to editors: 

1. The field staff will be in local areas from Thursday 8^th April to encourage completion of the Census and offer any advice which may be needed.  The field staff will work within strict Covid 19 guidelines including wearing face masks, regularly sanitising hands and equipment, maintaining social distancing and never entering any homes.
2. There is a range of accessibility and language support available on census.gov.uk/ni.  This includes an easy read information leaflet, information videos in British and Irish Sign Language with voiceover and subtitles and details on how to order a large print questionnaire or Braille guidance booklet. 
3. We have information leaflets and translation booklets available online on the Census website in 17 languages at  and a dedicated Language Line for additional language support is also available at 0800 587 2021.
4. Follow the Census on Twitter
5. Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Finance Press Office.

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