‘Scotland Connected,’ an artwork designed by Pilar Garcia de Leaniz to mark the launch of the census will be in Hawick today, (Saturday March 5 2022) as part of a two-week long tour.

And the local community will have the chance to colour, or ‘fill in’ the artwork in the run up to its unveiling on Census Day

The census is a unique count of everyone in Scotland; it is used to plan vital public services and inform investment in areas such as education, transport, health and social care. For the first time it is anticipated that the majority of census responses will be made online but with paper questionnaires available for those who wish to use them.

From 28 February, more than 2.5 million households representing more than 5.5 million people began to receive letters with information on how to participate. Census Day is 20 March but households can complete their return now, although responses should reflect their circumstances on Census Day.

The census will ask questions on a range of topics, including the types of accommodation people stay in, household relationships, age, sex, health and employment status. New questions for the 2022 census include use of on British Sign Language (BSL), passports held, sexual orientation, trans status and previous armed forces service history.

The ‘Scotland Connected’ artwork will be on display at the census stand from 9am – 5pm at the Heart of Hawick. As well as having the chance to fill in the artwork, locals will also be able to explore the census roadshow stand where they can learn about the census, its importance, and where to find support to fill it in.

Angus Robertson MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs and Culture said: “Scotland’s Census helps the Scottish Government, Local Government and other service providers to plan services and make decisions about how public money will be spent on major services in our communities, including schools, roads and hospitals”

Pete Whitehouse, Director of Statistical Services, National Records of Scotland (NRS), said: “It’s really important that everyone participates in the census, whether online or by paper form. Help and support is available on our website census.gov.scot or via our free helpline 0800 030 8308, for anyone who needs it.

Pilar Garcia de Leaniz studied as a Master of Illustration at Edinburgh College of Art where she is currently a Teaching Fellow in Textiles.

She said: “The ‘Scotland Connected’ artwork is a visual representation of the fabric of Scotland, showcasing its people, landmarks and the benefits of the census. It’s inspired by a desire to show everything that’s great about Scotland and I’m excited to see the artwork come to life over the coming weeks as it tours communities.

“It’s been a real honour to be a part of the project and have the chance to produce a piece that captures the essence of the census and the way in which it benefits communities across Scotland.”

For more information and to complete the census online, visit census.gov.scot. People can also call the free census helpline on 0800 030 8308 for further help and support.