Census

Definition

A census is a systematic count of a population, usually recording information such as age, sex and occupation. Carried out at regular intervals, it provides essential data to support government planning, policy development and allocation of resources.

Also known as

Population Census, National Census​

Relevance to OCSI

OCSI uses census data to gain insights into population demographics, trends, and needs. Census data is widely regarded as the gold standard of open data. When used close to publication, it provides the most accurate picture of communities – helping you to target local interventions more effectively.

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Resources and data

The Community Needs Index – Past, Present and Future

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Indices of Deprivation

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London is often characterised as a city of wealth and opportunity, yet…
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Data analysis

What the Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation (WIMD) 2025 reveals about inequality across Wales

The Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation (WIMD) is the official measure of…
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