Since way back in 1801, census data has been gathered by the Government every ten years and 2011 sees the next one taking place in the UK.
In preparation for the nationwide survey due to take place next March, a three month long survey has kicked off on the Isle of Wight.
The purpose of the survey is to check the accuracy of addresses prior to the 2011 census.
Officers from Capita will be carrying out the survey and we’re informed, in some instances, they may wish to speak to the homeowner/occupiers to ask how many Census forms will be needed.
Doorstop survey
These officers will all be carrying ID, so if they knock on your door, do insist on seeing it before passing over any personal information.
They won’t be expecting to enter the house, so if they do, advice is to “close the door and call the police” if you’re concerned.
Isle of Wight Council Chief Executive Steve Beynon said “This is a genuine survey being run by the Office of National Statistics ahead of the Census, which will be held in March next year.
“It is entirely understandable that some people may be suspicious if they see groups of people in their streets carrying out a survey. Anyone who speaks to any of the officers or gets a knock on their door are welcome to ask for ID as every person involved in the survey will have ID on them”
Further information can be obtained by calling the National Office of Statistics on 0845 601 3034.
Image: Jasleen Kaur under CC BY-SA 2.0
