Be part of your community’s future by working on Census 2021
Census 2021 is fast approaching, and the Office for National Statistics is now on the lookout for staff from across the country, including Shropshire, to encourage people to take part in the decennial event.
The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives us the most accurate estimate of the population and households. Census day is Sunday 21 March 2021.
It informs decisions nationally and locally on vital services, and ultimately it ensures millions of pounds are invested in emergency services, mental health care, school places, hospital beds, houses, roads, GPs’ and dentists’ services, based on the information people give.
Pete Benton, Census director of operations, said:-
“The ONS is hiring thousands of people in a range of exciting temporary roles to make Census 2021 a success. I would love the census field force to include people from every community across England and Wales.
“Around 300 community engagement staff have already been employed, and next week recruitment will begin for a whole range of field staff which will peak at over 30,000 jobs at the height of the census operation in the spring of 2021.
“These roles will be perfect for those who enjoy talking to people and working in the community, and every post filled will help ensure communities across the length and breadth of England and Wales are represented.
“It is crucial everyone – from people living in London’s commuter-belt to all inner city communities; from those living in the countryside to student populations; all generations and ethnic minorities – takes part to give the best picture of the needs of us all.”
Understanding the needs of the nation helps everyone from central government to organisations such as councils and health authorities plan and fund public services.
Claire Porter, Shropshire Council’s head of legal and democratic services, said:-
“We need your help and enthusiasm to encourage everyone in Shropshire to participate.
“The census gives us a picture of our county, which helps to plan and fund public services in Shropshire. Nothing else gives so much detail about the society in which we live, helping to make decisions with the potential to transform lives for the better.
“Whether you’re saving up for something or you want to make a real difference to your community, there’s a job for you.
“People make the census.”
Information from the census is also important in helping lots of other people and organisations do their work. Charities and voluntary organisations often use it as evidence to get funding. It also helps businesses to understand their customers and decide where to open new services.
Operating in line with the Government’s latest COVID-19 guidance, census officers will be deployed across the country next spring to contact those who have not responded. They will offer help and advice to those who need it. They will also remind people that their census response is required by law. Flexible hours are available, although some evening and weekend work will be expected.
For more information about the roles available in Shropshire, people should visit https://www.shropshire.gov.uk/shire-services/job-vacancies/
To register interest and for more information on all the census jobs available, people should visit censusjobs.co.uk.
