MORE than one million doorstep visits have been carried out by Census staff in Scotland as part of an ongoing drive to improve completion rates.
Following the extension of the deadline for completing the Census to the end of May due to poor response rates, Census administrator National Records of Scotland (NRS) have confirmed that as of this week, their workers will offer extra help to complete the paperwork on the doorstep.
As of May 15, the Census return rate stood at 82.6%, or 2,166,528 Scottish households.
Commenting, Constitution Secretary Angus Robertson said: “It is vital that we secure as high a response rate as possible so that the census can be effective in delivering its many benefits for future public services.
“Census data informs how and where public money is spent on vital services, from the building of new schools and hospitals to improving transport links and understanding health needs.
“From today, households will be offered extra help to complete their census at their door by a member of our team.
“I would encourage everyone to take up this offer and fill in their census as soon as possible.”
Angus Robertson holds a piece of the Scotland Connected Artwork jigsaw during the launch of Scotland's Census 2022
NRS chief executive Paul Lowe added: “Thank you to those who have already completed the census. By taking part you are ensuring not just your own needs are captured but those of your family and your community too.
“This information helps to ensure that the right services are provided in the right places.
“It is used by the Scottish Government, local councils, charities and a host of other organisations who provide essential services.
“I would urge everyone who has not completed to do so immediately and before the end of May, to avoid the risk of prosecution.”
A census helpline is available on 0800 030 8308, which can provide a paper questionnaire or language interpretation.
