Orkney folk urged to take part in census follow up

Households in Orkney are being encouraged to take part in the next phase of Scotland’s Census.

The Census Coverage Survey (CCS) is the second largest social research exercise in Scotland after the census itself, covering around 1.5 per cent of households nationwide including some in Orkney. 

It is run by National Records of Scotland (NRS) and, together with census data, it helps to provide an accurate estimate of Scotland’s population and the people within it.

 The survey will be conducted door-to-door by NRS staff carrying identification.

Orkney Islands Council interim chief executive, John Mundell, said: “This survey is a very important follow up to the Census. It will help the Scottish Government ensure census information we can all have confidence in.

“Census data is a key source of information for this Council whenever we look to plan services for our community.

“I’d therefore urge any household invited to take part in this follow up survey to please do so – you will be helping us to help you, your family and our community.”

Paul Lowe, registrar general for Scotland and chief executive of the National Records of Scotland said: “The Census Coverage Survey is a key part of the census programme and ensures a comprehensive and accurate picture of return rates across the country has been recorded. This allows us to produce census data which can be used to plan and deliver the services we all rely on from schools to healthcare, housing and roads.

“Even if you have completed the census, you may still be asked to take part in the coverage survey. By doing so, you are supporting the census to deliver its many benefits for service planning in Scotland. Please participate if asked to take part.”

CCS staff will carry ID and their identity can be checked with a free telephone helpline on 0800 033 4010. They will never ask people for financial information like their bank account details and will not ask for money.

A small number of questions will be asked that can either be answered on the doorstep, by completing a paper form or by speaking to the free helpline.