Quarter of residents still to submit census
A politician has urged Renfrewshire residents to complete census forms ahead of a looming deadline.
It comes after it emerged that households in the area have one of the lowest return rates in Scotland.
According to data from the National Records for Scotland, just 74 per cent of Renfrewshire households have responded to the national survey.
Glasgow City has the lowest percentage of households who have completed the 2022 census, on 65.5 per cent.
Now MSP Natalie Don has encouraged Renfrewshire households to complete their census form, saying:“The census helps to plan public services for the future, so it is hugely important to play your part to make sure everyone is heard, and everyone’s individual needs are accurately recorded.
“According to the latest statistics, around one quarter of the people in Renfrewshire still haven’t completed their census form.
“Renfrewshire currently has 74 per cent of household census forms returned and I would encourage everyone to complete their form, whether it’s the online one or a paper based form.
The SNP politician for Renfrewshire North and West added:“The census provides important information to help plan public services for the future from the NHS to planning for future schools etc, therefore it’s important to get as accurate information as possible from every household in the country.
“It’s a legal responsibility and householders are responsible for making sure they respond.
“Anyone who hasn’t completed the census by May 1 could face a fine.
“From a historical point of view also, the census is really important.
“It is not just about helping direct how we make decisions today.
“After 100 years, all census returns become available for the public to access, which means that not only can we study how Scotland’s past has changed, but will also allow future generations to discover more about the people who have lived here.”
The census takes place every ten years and is the official count of every person and household in the country.
It helps the government and other agencies such as local councils make important decisions about vital services.