Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Record
Daily Record
Lifestyle
Lucy Farrell

When is the new Scottish census deadline and why has it moved?

Households across Scotland now have an extra four weeks to complete their census forms, the government has confirmed.

National Records of Scotland (NRS) has offered the extension until May 31, 2022 to ensure everyone has the chance to help shape important services in their community.

The news comes after reports of poor completion rates from Scots.

It must be noted that failure to submit the census is a criminal offence and could mean prosecution and a £1,000 fine.

Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson said: “The results of the Census help local authorities, businesses and the government plan a wide range of vital public services to improve the lives of those living and working in Scotland.

“In addition to being a civic responsibility completion of the census is also a legal responsibility.

"For those who have already completed their census, thank you, for those still to do so, I would urge you to act now.”

Over two million households have already sent in their response - more than three quarters of Scottish households.

At least 68,000 households have started a census form online but have not finished.

Also, a similar number of requested paper forms have yet to be returned.

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.