Swindon landmarks to be illuminated purple this weekend to mark historic census

Greenbridge roundabout and Central Library, along with many landmark buildings across the country, will be illuminated purple to mark the historic census weekend and serve as a reminder to residents to complete their survey.

The census is a survey which takes place every ten years and is run by the Office for National Statistics to gather robust information about the population at local and national levels. Understanding the needs of the nation helps everyone from central government to local organisations, such as councils, health authorities, businesses and charities, to plan and fund public services and facilities across England and Wales.

The Office for National Statistics continues to work with Swindon Borough Council and local organisations to deliver a successful census on 21 March 2021, helping local services to be able to meet future needs.  

Most residents will by now have received a letter from the ONS which contains the unique access code needed to complete the survey online. Anyone who hasn’t received their unique code can request one by visiting census.gov.uk or calling 0800 141 2021.

Despite the COVID-19 restrictions, there is plenty of support available to help residents to complete their census. Voluntary Action Swindon (VAS) are acting as the Census Support Centre in Swindon. This support will be telephone based and appointments can be made with a trained advisor until 4 May by calling 01793 466650 or emailing census@vas-swindon.org.

Although this census is ‘digital-first’, which means that people are encouraged to complete it online if possible, residents can request a paper copy if required. This can be done either by the individual or by someone on their behalf by visiting census.gov.uk, by calling the national helpline or by contacting VAS on 01793 466650. Individuals are also able to complete the census on behalf of someone else if required.

Councillor Robert Jandy, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Organisational Excellence, said: “With census day just around the corner, I would ask all residents to complete the survey if they haven’t already. The information provided gives us key insights into our communities, to make sure we’re delivering services which meet the needs of our residents.

“Although online completions of the survey are being encouraged this year, we know that won’t work for everyone so there’s plenty of support and information available to help enable everyone to complete the census.”

For more information and advice on how to answer the questions, visit census.gov.uk.