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.

Related links and examples


Author


Featured posts

Indices of Deprivation

Deprivation in London: Analysis of the English Indices of Deprivation 2025

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

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…
More

Decorative image with the text "Data and resources"

Resources and data

Pride in Place Explorer for Wales

What is the Pride in Place Explorer for Wales? The Pride in…
More

Case studies
Data analysis
Featured
Indices of Deprivation
left behind neighbourhoods
OCSI news
Research Projects
Resources and data
Uncategorized