Buildings to go purple for Census 2021
Dudley Council House and Stourbridge Town Hall are to be lit up purple this weekend to mark Census day on Sunday (March 21).
The census is a once-in-a-decade survey run by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which gives the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales.
It provides essential information for government, local authorities, businesses, charities and the community to plan and deliver services, reach those who need help and secure funding.
Billions of pounds of public money is distributed using census figures on services such as transport, education and health – on cycle routes, schools and dental surgeries.
It will be the first census to be run predominantly online, but residents can request a paper questionnaire if they prefer.
Dudley, Halesowen and Stourbridge libraries are offering census support to anyone who needs help completing the form. Call Dudley Library on 01384 815560, Halesowen Library on 01384 812983 or Stourbridge Library on 01384 812945.
Adult and Community Learning Neighbourhood Learning Centres in Castle and Priory, Brierley Hill and Dudley Wood can also assist by calling 01384 818143 or emailing acl@dudley.gov.uk.
A national contact centre is also offering support on 0800 141 2021.
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council said:
It’s extremely important for households to complete the census, which is why we are highlighting the day by lighting up Dudley Council House and Stourbridge Town Hall purple this weekend.
The information gathered is used to determine how much funding is allocated to our public services, such as healthcare, education and transport, as well as how we plan and deliver services now and in the future.
I urge everyone to take a few minutes of their time to fill in the form and if anyone needs help doing this, please call Stourbridge, Halesowen or Dudley Library where telephone support is available.
Every household should complete the census and provide accurate information.
After census day (March 21) the ONS will be following up with households which have not yet competed the form to advise on the support available to help them complete the Census.
Households will never be asked for any payment or for any bank details as part of the census.
For more information or to order a paper copy visit www.census.gov.uk or call the contact centre on 0800 141 2021.