Scotland's Census 2011

1st March 2011

Scotland's biggest population count, the 2011 Census, takes place on Sunday 27 March and everyone must be included.

The census is the only survey to ask us all the same questions at the same time. It is how people across Scotland send a message to government and businesses about the services they and their community need, now and in the future.

This ten yearly snapshot of the population also asks about Gaelic language use; and the Census form can also be completed in Gaelic on-line - see the "Current Documents" opposite, for more information.

The census paints a picture of Scotland as a nation and through its communities. This reliable measure of the size of the population and the statistics about our circumstances - including age, health, accommodation - that are derived from it are used to help target and deliver billions of pounds worth of public services. The census informs the planning of health, education and transport services as well as business investment and retail opportunities throughout Scotland.

Personal information is kept confidential for 100 years.

For more information or help visit: www.scotlandscensus.gov.uk