The next census takes place on 27 March 2011, although the questionnaire will appear through your letterbox from mid-March.
RNIB has worked with the Office for National Statistics on the 2011 census, producing braille and audio guidance information. Our Web Access team have also worked with them on their website so that some parts of it have been awarded Surf Right accreditation.
Complete your census online and using accessible formats
From 7 March, you will be able to complete your census online.
Your form will have a code printed on the front that you can use to complete the census online. The online form will guide you through the process, and skip any questions that don't apply to you.
The accessibility formats for England and Wales include large print questionnaires and braille guidance, as well as audio CD and cassette tape guidance (each including the full set of census questions). All of these formats can be accessed via the census website.
Help and support
You can also request accessible formats by calling the census helpline on 0300 0201 101 (England) or 0300 0201 130 (Wales).
Full support will also be offered via the census helpline, including the ability to request visits from census field staff.
Find out further ways to get help on the census website.
Background information
Every ten years since 1801, the census has taken a snapshot of the population in England and Wales on one particular day (except in 1941 due to the Second World War).
Knowing how many people live where means decisions about developments in communities are based on relevant, reliable statistics.
Accurate census estimates means local authorities, not-for-profit organisations and charities are better equipped to plan and deliver services; which could potentially lead to more facilities appearing in your area.
The 2011 census has consulted widely to make sure it's offering appropriate assistance.
The 2011 Census Accessibility Manager says: "Technology now makes it possible for us to reach large numbers of people who, while willing to complete their questionnaire, may otherwise find the task difficult. But even very simple things can make a big difference, such as making a large print census questionnaire available in A4 (instead of a larger A3 document), and using alternative online colour combinations."