Latest from Scotland’s Census 2021

Planning is well underway for Scotland’s Census 2021. Although 2021 may seem a long way off, the complex systems, processes and services needed will require a huge effort to deliver.

A variety of activity has been going on ‘behind the scenes’ to put in place the various structures and controls for this programme of work. Some highlights that might be of interest include:

• A report of our 2021 Topic Consultation has now been published on the Scotland's Census website. This report represents our response to the consultation, updating the initial view on the topics under consideration for inclusion in the next census.

• In September, we are holding two supplier engagement events in Edinburgh and London. These will highlight the products and services that we will require to procure to support the delivery of the census and raise awareness amongst potential suppliers. As part of the commercial strategy development process for the next census we are already seeking views and information from potential suppliers regarding the commercial requirements. More information is available from Public Contracts Scotland.

• Work on the outputs and statistical disclosure control aspects for 2021 has continued. We are engaging with the other UK census agencies, participating in international groups on dissemination and disclosure and researching various disclosure methodologies. A short life working group has also been established comprising users of census outputs to provide input to this work.

Please visit the Scotland's Census website for further information about plans for the next census, including early information on our plans for the design of the next census.

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