Census Information
A census is a survey of all people and households in the country
which provides essential information from national to
neighbourhood level for government, business and the community.
Census statistics help paint a picture of the nation and how we
live. They provide a detailed snapshot of the population and its
characteristics, and underpin funding allocations to provide public
services. Results are provided for every topic covered by the
Census for a range of administrative areas.
A census of the population has been taken every ten years since
1801 with the most recent being held on Sunday 27 March 2011.
The 2011 Census
The 2011 census of England and Wales took place on 27 March
2011. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has begun to publish
detailed information derived from the census and further
information can be found on their website.
The ONS also provides the background on how the data is
collected, analysed and published. Further information about census
results in Northumberland can be found on the following page
http://www.northumberland.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=10280#Census.
The 2001 Census
Information derived from the 2001 census was first published by
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) in the document “Key
Statistics for local authorities in England and Wales”. This
provides detailed results from the census in a compact and easily
digestible form. Results are provided for every topic covered by
the Census for a range of administrative areas. A summary of
information within Northumberland can be found on the Statistical Reports page.
Why is the Census
Important?
The census is important because it is the most complete source
of information we have about the population. It allows central and
local Government and many other organisations to target their
resources more effectively and to plan housing, education, health
and transport services for years to come.
Confidentiality
The Census Confidentiality Act 1991 gives legal protection by
making the unauthorised disclosure of personal census information
an offence. The Office for National Statistics processed the Census
forms in secure conditions and paper copies were destroyed. Digital
images of individual responses will only be made public after 100
years.
Measures are taken to prevent inadvertent disclosure of
information about individuals through the statistical results. For
example, information is not released for areas containing fewer
than 100 households.
Warnings
There were a number of changes to the 2001 Census that all users
should be aware of if they wish to compare results with those of
the 1991 Census.
2001 was the first Census to make adjustments for "missing"
people.
It included students at their term time address - last time they
were included at their home address.
Information is included on relationships within households, the
lowest floor level of accommodation, unpaid personal care and
religion.
There is no information on income, but there is information on
socio-economic group.
There is no information on disability, but there is information
on limiting long term illnesses and general health over the past
year.
