01 March 2021
The Jersey census is a unique survey that gives a complete and accurate picture of all the people and households in Jersey. Census Day is Sunday 21 March and marks the 200th anniversary of the first official census count in 1821.
Jersey’s population according to the 2011 census was 97,857 compared with 28,600 in 1821.
The census is run by Statistics Jersey and takes place once every decade. It helps plan public services such as education, healthcare, and transport, and is widely used by businesses, charities, and Islanders. Over the coming weeks, households will receive information leaflets and their census questionnaires in the post. A small number of questionnaires will be hand delivered by the census team.
For the first time in Jersey, Islanders can choose to complete the census online. Every household will receive a unique code to access the online form. Support with completion is available online and from the census office for anyone who needs it.
Chief Statistician at Statistics Jersey, Ian Cope said: “The 2021 census will provide a fresh picture of the local population and shed light on the social and economic changes to Jersey over the past 10 years.
“Completing the census is not only a legal obligation but is vitally important as it helps inform the planning of healthcare services, housing and school places which impacts all Islanders.
“This year, we have introduced some new questions about health and disabilities which will help with the understanding of healthy life expectancy. There are also new voluntary questions regarding sexual orientation and gender identity which are important for monitoring progress against equalities legislation. These new questions will provide us with data not previously available in Jersey.
“The census reveals important details of how we live and work and will inform the Island’s history for generations to come. It’s fascinating to look back at impacts such as the first World War and the 1918 flu pandemic which led to a decrease of 2,000 people in the 1921 census.
“I encourage Islanders to fill the census out as soon as possible and to use the online form. We expect to publish the results of the 2021 census by early 2022.”
Islanders who fail to complete the census are liable to a fine of £1,000.
gov.je