This consultation is open from 28 October 2025 to 4 February 2026
What this consultation is about
NISRA is seeking your views to help shape the content of Census 2031. This consultation is your opportunity to tell us what information you need from the census and how it can best support planning, policy, research, and services across Northern Ireland.
Why we are consulting
Census 2031 will build on the success of Census 2021 and aims to reflect the changing needs of society. We want to understand:
- how you used Census 2021 data
- what topics you need included in Census 2031
- your views on using alternative data sources to support the census
Your feedback will help ensure the census remains relevant, efficient, and valuable to users.
Our proposals
NISRA has published its initial views on the topics for inclusion on Census 2031. These include:
- retaining key topics such as age, sex, religion, health, and housing
- considering new topics like gender identity, income, and veterans
- exploring the use of alternative data sources to reduce respondent burden
Read the full consultation document
Ways to respond
Alternatively, you can download and return the questionnaire (PDF or Word version) by email or post.
- Email: census2031.consultations@nisra.gov.uk
- Post: Census Office, NISRA, Colby House, Stranmillis Court, Belfast, BT9 5RR
Read more about the consultation
Supporting documents are available on the NISRA website, including:
- full consultation document (PDF)
- consultation questionnaire (PDF/Word)
- frequently asked questions
- moderation policy
- guidance for organisations with multiple responses
Attend our online consultation event
We are hosting a virtual event to explain the consultation, answer questions, and support your participation.
Event details
- Date: Wednesday 12 November 2025
- Time: 11am
- Platform: Microsoft Teams
- Duration: 1 hour
How to register
- Select the registration link
- Enter your name and email address
- You will receive a confirmation email with joining instructions
- On the day, select the link in your email to join the event
If you need help registering, please contact us at census2031.consultations@nisra.gov.uk.
After the consultation closes
All responses will be reviewed and published in accordance with our moderation policy. The evaluation of these responses will inform NISRA’s recommendations for topics to include on the Census 2031 questionnaire. However, the final decision about which topics are collected in Census 2031 will ultimately be for the Northern Ireland Assembly to take.
Need help taking part?
If you need the consultation in another format or support to respond, please contact us at census2031.consultations@nisra.gov.uk