About the 2021 Census

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 census is unique, with no other information source able to provide so much detail about us and the society we live in.

The Census has been carried out on a single nominated day every 10 years since 1801, with just one interruption (during the Second World War) in 1941.  In England and Wales, the Census is currently undertaken by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).  Elsewhere in the UK, responsibility lies with National Records of Scotland and the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency.

In early March 2021, ONS sent out letters to all households in England and Wales inviting them to take part in the Census online, and explaining how they can access support.  The Census questionnaire sought information on people's age, sex, nationality, ethnic background, health, language, work, education and other key population and household characteristics.  The statistics produced will be used to provide a picture of society in 2021, change over time and local variations.

Like all local authorities in England and Wales, Swansea Council relies on census information to identify local needs and plan the delivery of local services.  In addition, government funding for these services is directly related to the number and characteristics of people in Swansea recorded by the census.  The data is also widely used by academics, businesses, voluntary organisations and the general public.

By taking part in the Census, you helped inform decisions on services that shape local communities, including planning, health, social care, education and transport.

In one way or another, information from the census touches the lives of every single person living in England and Wales.  It helps the government and local authorities to plan and fund local services, including new schools, doctors' surgeries and roads for example.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) runs the census in England and Wales and is independent from government.  Personal details are protected by law and information published is always anonymous. 

The first Census results for Swansea are available at www.swansea.gov.uk/2021census_results.

For further background information about the Census, please visit the website www.ons.gov.uk/census (opens new window).