Make History on 21 March as LGBT People are #ProudToBeCounted in the Census for the First Time
The England and Wales Census 2021 - taking place on 21st March - will ask voluntary questions about sexual orientation and gender identity for the first time.
The inclusion of these questions represents a rare and valuable opportunity to ensure that LGBT communities are counted, which could have a significant impact on future support and recognition from Government and public bodies and services.
This is a once in a decade opportunity that cannot be wasted and we are calling on LGBT communities to respond to the census and be #ProudToBeCounted.
Why is it so Important to Respond to the Census?
Currently, there are no robust figures on the number of LGBT people in England and Wales, and existing estimates vary greatly depending on the source. This includes a lack of data on the size of minoritised groups within LGBT communities, such as the number of LGBT people of colour.
As a result, LGBT people’s experiences, and the inequalities affecting our communities, are often not truly recognised by Government and public bodies and services – and LGBT people are missing out as a result.
A lack of data makes it harder to recognise and respond to the needs of LGBT communities, and makes it easier to downplay persistent LGBT inequalities, including those that disproportionately affect LGBT people with intersecting identities.
What is Census Information Used For?
Census information will be used to allocate money to local authorities:
The estimated size of populations and households in local authorities and other sub-national areas are used to allocate billions of pounds to local areas.
Census infomation will used to develop policies:
For example, information about ethnicity helps to identify the extent and nature of disadvantage in the UK and is used to evaluate equal opportunities policies.
Census information will be used to plan and run public services:
For example, information about the age and socio-economic make-up of the population, general health, long-term illnesses and carers influences how health and social services are planned and run.
Get support with the census
Brighton & Hove LGBTQ Switchboard are offering free 1-2-1 census telephone or video calls for LGBT people! You don't need to live in Brighton & Hove to access this support. Book today at https://vello.fi/lgbtswitchboard/
