Back to the list

It's not too late to nominate

Do you know someone in Castle Point who is a community hero? 

To mark Census 2021 in March next year, a competition has launched to find the nation’s unsung community heroes. 22 People across England & Wales, one for each census that has taken place, 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 at the winner’s home, place of work or a community building depending on their preference and permissions.

From a schoolteacher who has transformed lives, to a carer who has given comfort; Castle Point is bursting with ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things.

To nominate someone visit www.census.gov.uk/census-2021-heroes and give your reason why.

The closing date is 31st December and nominees will be judged by a panel of community champions, led by ‘Gavin and Stacey’ actress and TV presenter Joanna Page.

The plaques will be installed ahead of census day, 21 March 2021.

The census is a national survey that has taken place every ten years since 1801 (except in 1941). Data from the census is used to plan public services throughout the UK.  As Castle point continues to grow, it is especially important that we have accurate information about local residents.

Joanna Page commented:

“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.”

Julie Taylor, Census Engagement Manager, commented:

“Castle Point has always shown great community spirit and this is especially true in 2020. It would be fantastic if we could celebrate a local resident with a Census 2021 Purple Plaque.  If you know someone who is deserving of a plaque then please do nominate them - let’s show them the recognition they deserve.”  

Notes to editor:

Other panellists:

  • Deborah Okenla: Deborah is the founder and CEO of YSYS (Your Start-up, Your Story); a start-up community for founders, developers, creatives, and investors on a mission to open doors of opportunity for diverse talent within the start-up ecosystem.
  • Imran Hameed: founder of Bearded Broz, a community group he says brings together the British and Islamic values of helping your neighbour in Birmingham.
  • Delwyn Derrick: Delwyn won the 2019 BBC Cymru Wales Sports Personality Unsung Hero for his work bringing people together through football. He manages Wrexham-based Bellevue FC, which uses sport to help people from different backgrounds.

About Census 2021

  • Everyone benefits from the census. It informs decisions nationally and locally on vital services and issues like diversity. Ultimately it ensures millions of pounds are invested in emergency services, mental health care, school places, hospital beds, houses, roads, GP’s and dentists’ services based on the information people give. We’ve made it easier for people to complete the census online on any device, with help and paper questionnaires for those that need them.
  • The next census will be held on 21st March 2021 in England and Wales and results will be available the following year. However personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.

About the Office for National Statistics (ONS)

  • The Office for National Statistics produces the numbers that matter most– on the economy and business, people, population and communities. Operating impartially and free of political control, we are mobilising the power of data to help Britain make better decisions and improve lives.