By Star of ‘Gavin and Stacey’ to front Census 2021 community heroes campaign
To mark Census 2021 in England and Wales, a competition has launched to find the nation’s unsung community heroes.
22 people, one for each census that has taken place to date, will have their community spirit and efforts commemorated with a unique purple plaque.
The iconic purple plaques, in the brand colour of Census 2021, can be placed in or on the winner’s home, place of work or a community building depending on their preference.
From a schoolteacher who has transformed lives, to a doctor who has saved them; communities up and down the country are bursting with ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things.
People are asked to nominate their community’s heroes by visiting www.census.gov.uk/census-2021-heroes.
The window for nominations will close on the 31st of December and nominees will be judged by a panel of community champions, led by actress Joanna Page.
The plaques will be installed ahead of census day, 21st of March 2021.
The census is a national survey that has taken place every ten years since 1801 (with the exception of 1941).
Joanna Page said:
“2020 has been a really difficult year for all of us”.
“The Purple Plaques initiative is a lasting and permanent way to celebrate the people who have made a real difference to their community”.
“The census is all about helping shape strong and vibrant communities, so it is fitting that we are celebrating the very people who make their local areas so special”.
“I’d encourage everyone to take part and think about who deserves a purple plaque within their community”.
Pete Benton, ONS Director of Census and Survey Operations, added:
“The search for Census Community Heroes will help us all recognise the strength of communities throughout the country”.
“I look forward to seeing the nominations come in and celebrating the people who have made a real difference to the areas where they live”.
