Census User Needs Consultation responses published
Date published:
NISRA received 140 responses to the Census User Needs Consultation. Moderated copies of these responses are now available to view on the NISRA website.
Overview
NISRA has published moderated copies of responses received to the Northern Ireland Census User Needs Consultation.
The consultation launched on 28 October 2025 and closed on 18 March 2026. It invited users to share their views to help shape Census 2031, including how Census 2021 data is used, which topics should be included, and the role of alternative data sources to support the census.
What you said
In total, 140 responses were received. This included:
- 93 from organisations
- 47 from individuals
Respondents represented a wide range of sectors. The largest group came from the charity, community and voluntary sector (51 responses), followed by central government (36) and statutory bodies such as health and education (15). There was also input from local government, the private sector and research fields.
All responses have been moderated and can be viewed online, alongside summary tables showing how often each question was answered.
What happens next
NISRA is currently reviewing all responses received in detail against pre-agreed evaluation criteria. The findings will help shape recommendations for the content of Census 2031.
A full report outlining the findings and NISRA’s response to the consultation will be published later in 2026.
Final decisions on census content will be subject to approval by the Northern Ireland Assembly.