What is a census?

Since 1801, every ten years the nation has set aside one day for the census - a count of all people and households. It's the most complete source of information about the population that we have.

What date was the census held?

The last census was held on Sunday 27 March 2011.

Who is included in the census?

Every effort is made to include everyone, and that's why the census is so important. It's the only survey which provides a detailed picture of the entire population, and is unique because it covers everyone at the same time and asks the same core questions everywhere. This makes it easy to compare different parts of the country.

What happens to the information collected?

The information the census provides allows central and local government, health authorities and many other organisations to target their resources more effectively and to plan housing, education, health and transport services for years to come.

Who carried out the census?

The census in England is planned and carried out by the Office for National Statistics.