Census 2031

What Census 2031 means for analysts, and how new methods, data sources and decisions today will shape the future of UK population statistics

Census 2031

Office for National Statistics (ONS), National Records of Scotland (NRS), Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) and Government Statistical Service (GSS)

The Census underpins some of the UK’s most important statistics – but the way it is delivered must continue to evolve.

In this session, colleagues involved in planning Census 2031 will explore what the next census could look like and why it matters for analysts across government. You’ll hear about the strategic questions shaping Census 2031, the opportunities and challenges of using new data sources and methods, and how choices made now will affect the quality, usability and trustworthiness of population statistics for years to come.

The session will focus on why Census 2031 is relevant far beyond the census community, highlighting implications for policy analysis, service planning, and evidence‑based decision making across government.

Who should attend?

This session is ideal for:

• Analysts who use census or population data
• Policy professionals relying on demographic evidence
• Colleagues interested in the future of official statistics
• Anyone curious about how major data collections evolve over time

What you could learn in this session

• Why Census 2031 matters for analysts across government
• The key strategic choices shaping the future census
• How census decisions affect data quality and comparability
• How population statistics support policy and public services
• How analysts can engage with and influence future data needs

Secure your space today!

About AiG Month (1-31 May 2026)

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