RESIDENTS in Trafford will soon be asked to take part in Census 2021 .

The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives us the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out every decade since 1801.

Census Day is on March 21 and it will be the first run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets.

“A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed”, Iain Bell, deputy national statistician at the Office for National Statistics, said.

“This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part and we have made it easier for people to do so online on any device, with paper questionnaires for those that need them.”

Cllr Mike Freeman, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for COVID-19 Recovery and Reform, said: “I would urge everyone to take part in the Census, it is vitally important. Population statistics are vital to our country: nationally, locally and within communities. Once every 10 years the census provides an opportunity to build a detailed and comprehensive picture of the nation. The country has the chance to provide the information that can help to ensure their communities are well served. For local authorities, census population estimates underpin both planning and provision of public services.”