Residents are being urged to take part in the census this year which will be held on 21 March.

The census is a survey for everyone run by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) every 10 years to provide a snapshot of all people and households in England and Wales to help to plan and fund public services.

The information helps to inform decisions taken by Hounslow Council on services such as healthcare, education, doctor's surgeries, cycle lanes and transport.

Cllr Pritam Grewal, Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Corporate Performance said: "The census has taken place in this country every 10 years for over 200 years and it is our duty to fill out the census questionnaire.

The census data helps historians as well as in ancestry tracing amongst other things.

"The information provided, will also help understand individual community's needs and ensures funds are invested in emergency services, health care, school places and other vital services. These issues matter to everyone so please get involved.

"We are also very pleased to have a local Census Engagement Manager appointed by the ONS to support Hounslow residents and help make Census 2021 a success."

Newton Fernandes (Andrew), Hounslow's Census Engagement Manager said: "Hounslow is a truly diverse borough with residents from all backgrounds.

"I am looking forward to helping organisations, charities, faith groups and community leaders within Hounslow raise awareness of the census and the value to residents in taking part."

By law everyone in a household is required to be included in the completed census form which is completely anonymous.

The census 2021 will include a new question on veterans of the UK Armed Forces, as well as voluntary questions, for those aged 16 and over, on sexual orientation and gender identity.

It will be run primarily online, making it easy for most people to complete the questionnaire on any device – whether that be a computer, a mobile phone or a tablet.

Local Census support centres will be offering help, while paper questionnaires will be available for those who need them. All census staff will operate in line with the Government's latest Covid-19 guidance.

More information here.