The Office for National Statistics (ONS) will be carrying out a census test in Blackpool this year. This is an important part of their preparations for the 2021 Census.



Blackpool Council is one of seven local authorities across England and Wales chosen to take part in the test on 9 April 2017.

How the test will work

ONS will send a letter to randomly-selected households in Blackpool 3 weeks before the test. It’ll contain a unique access code that will allow them to fill in their questionnaire online.

Why the test matters to you

It’s crucial ONS tests key elements to make sure everything will work as it should on census day. By taking part in the test, you’ll help make this happen.

The 2021 Census will be mainly online, so ONS needs to ensure systems are working properly.

ONS will also be testing new questions – including one on sexual identity – to find out whether they affect people’s responses.

Why ONS has chosen Blackpool

Behind its party image as a seaside mecca, it’s an area of huge contrasts. Because of the seasonal nature of seaside communities, many living in Blackpool visit for a short time then move on.

A significant number of the population live in hotel or bed and breakfast accommodation, which makes them challenging to include in the census. This is why ONS wants to test its systems and processes here in 2017 so that it can be confident it reaches the maximum number of people when the next census happens in 2021.

Blackpool also has greater challenges with internet connection than much of the country. Testing in this area will help show ONS how and if people will be able to complete the online questionnaire. There will be phone and online help available, and the test will enable ONS to plan resources to ensure that anyone who can’t complete online can do so on paper.

What you need to do

Simple. When the time comes, just answer a few questions about yourself and the people in your household on test day, 9 April 2017. It should only take about 10 minutes of your time.

Whatever you tell the census test will be in strictest confidence. Your information will only be used by ONS to assess questions and systems ahead of 2021.

If you need help

You may see census officers during April and May to offer help and encourage residents who haven’t responded to take part in the test.

For more information visit the Census 2017 test webpage.