People in Inverclyde 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% of households nationwide including some in Inverclyde. 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.

Louise Long, Chief Executive of Inverclyde Council said: “The census data provide essential information that helps public agencies, including councils, to accurately plan services.

“To do that the information needs to be up-to-date, accurate and reliable to allow councils and other public agencies to have confidence in it in planning services.  It is a huge concern that Inverclyde, alongside a range of other areas of Scotland, has lower levels of engagement with the census collection programme. 

“That makes the next stage of the census more crucial to make sure that the information already gathered is accurate.

“I would urge anyone contacted to take part in that next stage – the census coverage survey – to take part when Scotland’s Census field workers are in touch to allow them to help confirm the data gathered as part of the census.”

Paul Lowe, Registrar General for Scotland and Chief Executive, 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.