How we collect and use data at the ONS (2024)

FAQs

How we collect and use data at the ONS? ›

Where we get our data from. We ask people for the data we need through surveys and the census of England and Wales that happens every 10 years. It would not be efficient to regularly survey the whole population. So, we take a cross-section of the population and make reliable estimates that show trends in our society.

Organisations use our statistics to make important decisions that affect us all. For example, local government use the information to help plan services, such as schools, hospitals and rubbish collection. Businesses use it to decide where to establish themselves, which can create job opportunities.

We are responsible for collecting and publishing statistics related to the economy, population and society at national, regional and local levels. We also conduct the census in England and Wales every 10 years.

The 2021 Census Results

The ONS delivered a very successful census operation – with a return rate over 97% – and from this we will be able to provide a fantastic picture of our population.

We can use data on drivers and responses to understand how a policy works or can be more effective. The Foundations of Evidence-based Policymaking Act - the Evidence Act - requires Federal agencies to build and use evidence with data, statistics, and evaluation as we serve the Nation.

The Office for National Statistics is the UK's largest independent producer of official statistics and the recognised national statistical institute of the UK. It is responsible for collecting and publishing statistics related to the economy, population and society at national, regional and local levels.

Our main responsibilities are collecting, analysing and disseminating statistics about the UK's economy, society and population.

Collecting and using data

The ONS collects data from both survey and non-survey sources. Our survey sources include individuals, households, public bodies and businesses, as well as the census in England and Wales every 10 years.

We are the largest independent producer of official statistics in the UK and our statistics are impartial and free of political control. We are a part of the UK Statistics Authority, a non-ministerial government department that is accountable directly to the UK Parliament.

The UK Statistics Authority (UKSA) and its executive office (the Office for National Statistics (ONS)) does receive government funding through the Parliamentary Supply process but also generates income from revenue contracts with our customers, who are primarily other government departments.

Do I have to respond to the Office of National statistics? ›

No-one has to take part if they do not want to, but for us to paint an accurate picture of our society, it is vital that we interview as many people as possible, from all walks of life.

ONS is the executive office of the UK Statistics Authority. It is the UK's largest independent producer of official statistics and the recognised national statistical institute of the UK.

Some of our studies are conducted over the telephone. This is often because a household has taken part in the same study before and we are interested in knowing if anything has changed. Sometimes we will contact you for the first time by telephone instead of visiting your address.

Data are turned into evidence through data analyses and well-designed research. Quality data turned into evidence can help government agencies, officials, and others decide where to focus their efforts, find ways to improve, increase adoption of good practices, and build public understanding of and trust in government.

Statistics are important because they help people make informed decisions. Governments, organizations, and businesses all collect statistics to help them track progress, measure performance, analyze problems, and prioritize.

By harnessing the power of data analytics, government leaders, management, and employees can drive informed decision-making, optimize project outcomes, and contribute to the overall success of their organizations. Remember, data is the key to unlocking a prosperous and relevant future.

Increased transparency

Since open data is freely and publicly available, it lowers the barrier for the general public (and specific stakeholders) to understand the topic or issue the data addresses. Having the data at hand also empowers stakeholders to act on the data, advocating for themselves and their community.

Population data contains various influential details such as birth, death, demographic information such as age, sex, annual income, occupation, language, etc.

Statistics helps make informed decisions based on data by identifying patterns, predicting trends, and testing hypotheses. This allows analysts to avoid making uninformed assumptions and be confident in their decision-making process.