Census collectors out in the county

CENSUS collectors in the county start their house-to-house work from 2pm today (Wednesday April 6), contacting the householders who have so far not returned their 2011 census forms.

So far, across the country, nearly three-quarters of households have completed and returned their forms, but the picture varies across the regions.

In the South East 72 per cent have returned their forms.

2011 Census Director Glen Watson said today: “Our collectors will be helping and in some cases, persuading, those householders who have so far been reluctant or simply been too busy to fill in their forms.”

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Census collectors’ main role is to ensure questionnaires are completed and returned. They have all received online and classroom training to assist them with their role.

Collectors’ duties also include:

clarify census instructions and assist in form-filling where necessary

answer people’s census queries

point out the benefits for the local community of filling in the census form

ensure confidentiality and security of census information at all times

remind people filling in the form is a legal requirement

report where a refusal is encountered

obtain a completed census form

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All 2011 Census field staff wear photo identification badges and carry other visibly branded items. Collectors will never ask anyone for bank account details.

If householders are at all unsure about the identity of anyone claiming to be from the census, they should ask to see their proof of identity before answering any questions and if they still have concerns should contact the census helpline on 0300 0201 101 in England or the Welsh helpline 0300 0201130.

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