Approximately 700,000 Scottish households have not yet submitted their response to the census – and have one week left to avoid a £ 1,000 fine.
The census ends on 1 May and Scottish National Records warn that anyone who does not send in their answers could face prosecution or a fine of up to £ 1,000.
MSP’s Angus Robertson, secretary of the cabinet for constitution, foreign affairs and culture, warned: “It is essential that every host in Scotland completes the census. This is also your legal responsibility. “
Scotland’s National Records Office says two million households have responded so far, with census letters sent to more than 2.7 million properties, representing 5.5 million Scots. The decade-long survey gathers information that governments north and south of the border use to make sure they provide the right services for people.
Census Day in Scotland was 20 March and covered a range of topics, including household relationships, health, housing, age and employment. New questions in this year’s census are about the use of British sign language, passports, sexual orientation and trans status.
Mr Robertson called on people to complete and return their census if they have not already done so. “The information gathered is vital to shaping important services in your community, from building new schools and hospitals to improving transport links and understanding health needs,” he said.
“We know that there are people who started the census online but did not finish it, and that others have asked for a paper copy but have not yet returned it. If this applies to you, please act now and use available support to make sure we receive your response by the deadline. “
Since 1801, a census has been conducted in Scotland every 10 years, except in 1941, when World War II raged, and in 2021 because of the Covid-19 pandemic. England, Wales and Northern Ireland conducted their survey in March 2021. Anyone who has moved from another part of the United Kingdom to Scotland still has to fill in the form.
Paul Lowe, chief executive of Scotland’s National Records, said: “I thank the two million households that have already submitted their responses. For anyone who is not yet, I would urge you to act now. Help and support for completing your census is available on our website census.gov.scot or through our toll-free number 0800 030 8308. Paper forms are still available on request for those who need them. ”
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