Related Articles
Yesterday, the National Records of Scotland revealed that a quarter of Scots have yet to return their census form.
Over two million Scottish households have submitted their census response, but a further 700,000 still need to complete it.
And there could be serious consequences for those who do not submit the form by the deadline of May 1, 2022.
Angus Robertson MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs and Culture said:
“It’s essential that every householder in Scotland completes the census; it’s also your legal responsibility.
“I would ask everyone who has not submitted their census return to do so now.
“We know that there are people who have begun the census online but haven’t completed it, and that others have requested a paper copy but haven’t yet returned it. If this applies to you, please act now and use the support available to ensure we receive your response by the deadline.”
Here is what could happen if you fail to submit your census on time.
Prosecution
Completing the census is required by law.
The Census Act 1920 allows for a census to be taken every five years.
Under this legislation, people who fail or refuse to submit a completed census form in good time could face prosecution, which could lead to a criminal record.
Providing false information to the census is also a criminal offence.
Fines
Fines of up to £1000 pounds can be issued to each person who does not submit take part in the census.
This does not cover court costs.
I never received a form, am I’m exempt from the census?
Absolutely not. Every household in Scotland must complete a census questionnaire.
People who are over 16 and living in places like halls of residence, care homes or a hostels are responsible for completing an individual census questionnaire.
According to Government advice, the householder is the person who lives, or is present, at an address who:
- owns/rents (or jointly owns/rents) the accommodation and/or
- is responsible (or jointly responsible) for paying the household bills and expenses
A household can be:
- one person living alone, or
- a group of people (not necessarily related) living at the same address who share cooking facilities and share a living room or sitting room or dining area
If you did not receive a paper copy by post, you can fill out the census online here.
What if I can not complete the census?
There are reasons why some may feel that they can not take part in the census, such as:
- none of the householders are able to complete the questionnaire
- there is no householder, eg you are staying at a residence you do not own like a holiday house
If for any reason, you feel you are unable to complete the census, you must contact CensusGov by submitting a contact form or ringing their census helpline at 08000308308.
Opening hours are 8-4pm, Monday to Friday and 9am-4pm, Saturday -Sunday.
The website also hosts a live webchat for anyone who needs census assistance.
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond – Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
