Census deadline looms

If forms are not returned by the deadline, one of 35,000 census collectors intend to visit those properties in the following few days.

Collectors will offer help and advice to those who have difficulty completing their Census forms and will supply replacement questionnaires if they have been lost or damaged.

Glen Watson, Office of National Statistics (ONS) Census Director said: “We are encouraging everyone to respond quickly if they don’t need help from a collector. That gets people crossed off our list and reduces the visits that our census collectors have to make. Even better if people complete it online - it all helps to keep the costs down.”

Completed questionnaires are ticked off the ONS list as they are received.

Mr Watson said: “Taking part in the Census is very important as it is used to help plan and fund a range of services for communities such as transport, education and health.”

It is a legal requirement to complete and return the questionnaire and everyone must be included. The quickest way to return the form and get it to the ONS before the deadline is to complete it online at: www.census.gov.uk

Anyone requiring help can also use the online help site at the same website address or contact the 2011 Census helpline on 0300 0201 101.

• Need help locally filling in your census?

A drop-in session will be held at the De La Warr Pavilion on April 5 for all those who need a hand to complete the questionnaire.

This takes place from 10-3pm - if you would like more details contact Joe Fairclough on 07557190367 or Andrew Fleming on 07557134694.