What if more detailed ethnic group data are needed?

Although the 2001 Census provides a key baseline for comparisons, it is primarily designed to produce national data. Working at smaller scales, such as a region or a local council, there may be large populations of ethnic groups that need to be recognised in a question on ethnic group.

If this is the case, using 'write-in' answers to ethnic questions, which can be allocated to the main census categories, will allow you to compare your results with the Census data.

You may also want to get a more complete set of data on ethnicity. Wherever possible we recommend that you ask questions on other key aspects of ethnicity such as religion or country of birth.

It is recommended you use standard questions that will allow comparability with the Census data as far as possible.

How are 'write-in' answers allocated to ethnic groups in the 2001 Census?
Which are the ethnic groups that are particularly difficult to allocate to Census categories?
How do I collect data on religion?
How do I collect data on country of birth?

This page last revised: Tuesday 4 November 2003