One week left to complete census rehearsal - About 72,000 households invited to take part.

People in Dumfries and Galloway, Glasgow and Na h-Eileanan Siar have one week to take part in the census rehearsal.

Around 72,000 households in those areas received a letter this month with information about the rehearsal and details on how to participate. This week they received another letter, reminding them that they still have until Thursday 7 November to complete their census rehearsal questionnaire.

Taking part in the rehearsal is voluntary, but doing so helps preparation for Scotland’s census 2021. The census findings are vitally important to the planning of public services such as schools, roads and hospitals.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop visited the Census Rehearsal Helpline office, where staff answer questions from the public and help them complete their census, either online or by requesting a paper copy.

Ms Hyslop said: “Census results are vital for helping the government, local authorities and key services plan for every element of life in Scotland – from the construction of new homes to NHS support. The census also becomes part of our history – in the future our descendants will be able to find out about us and how we lived.

“I’d like to thank the many people in the rehearsal areas who have already filled out their questionnaire. For those who haven’t yet, there’s still time to take part, with one week left until it closes on November 7.”

Pete Whitehouse, Director of Statistical Service, NRS, said:

“The census takes place every ten years and is a unique count of everyone in Scotland. It is important we get it right in 2021, and taking part in the rehearsal helps us to do just that. By taking part in the rehearsal, you’re helping to shape Scotland’s future and improve the lives of people living and working in Scotland.”

People who live in the rehearsal areas and are looking for more information can visit census.gov.scot or call the census helpline on 0800 030 8333 until 7 November. They can also follow on Facebook and Twitter @Scotcensus2021 .

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