Scottish census deadline looming as households urged to avoid £1000 fines by National Records of Scotland

Hundreds of Scottish households have been urged to complete the census ahead of the looming deadline.

In a final reminder, National Records of Scotland (NRS) has warned Scots that the May 31 deadline is their “last chance” to avoid a £1,000 fine.

The organisation has confirmed that its public awareness campaign and census collection field teams will be closed down on Tuesday.

Small numbers of form returns delayed for legitimate reasons will still count if returned in the days immediately after May 31.

The national completion rate stands at 86% of all households, with over two million opting to complete it online.

Paul Lowe, chief executive of NRS, said: “It was great last week to cross the 85% response rate nationally – a major milestone in the census – and to see 25 local authorities exceeding their local target of 85%. I want to say a huge thank you to each and every household across the country who has done their bit.”

He urged households to complete the census, adding that the data collected helps make big decisions which affect local communities and the country as a whole.

He said: “Tomorrow is the last chance for households to complete and submit their census. My message to those who have yet to complete is: don’t miss out. Don’t regret not taking part. Big decisions about our local communities and our nation as a whole are based on census data. Everyone’s circumstances need to be captured to ensure the best decisions are taken, so please complete now.”