Peterborough community hero given purple plaque ahead of census day.

Bernadetta is one of 22 people to be awarded with the special plaque

A total of 22 of the plaques have been given out across the country - one for each census that has taken place.

The competition which received hundreds of entries across England and Wales, has awarded Bernadetta Omondi for her services to her local community in Peterborough shopping and delivering food to the people who need it. She is also the chairperson of Black History Month and other committees, and always encourages cohesion and inclusion for all.

Bernadetta said: “I am truly grateful to have received the Census 2021 Community Hero Award, amongst the hundreds of entries that were submitted. I am passionate and proud of my community, and it’s a pleasure to do what I can and to be of service to Peterborough.”

The entries were judged by a panel of community champions, led by actress and presenter, Joanna Page.

Joanna said: “I am honoured to have been a judge on the Census 2021 community hero awards panel. It was such a pleasure to read through all the amazing entries. In what has been a difficult year for so many of us, this was a great opportunity to say thank you to the people who go above and beyond to serve their local community.”

Iain Bell, ONS Deputy National Statistician, added: “It has been incredible to see the reaction from local communities for this award which resulted in hundreds of entries across England and Wales. This is testament to just how many incredible people are doing amazing things, and how during this difficult year we have seen the best come out in people. We can all do something, however big or small, to help those around us.”

The census, taking place on 21 March 2021, will shed light on the needs of different groups and communities, and the inequalities people are experiencing, ensuring the big decisions facing the country following the pandemic and EU exit are based on the best information possible.

Census 2021 will inform decisions nationally and locally on vital services and issues. Ultimately it ensures millions of pounds are invested in emergency services, mental health care, school places, hospital beds, houses, roads, GPs and dentists’ services - all based on the information people provide.

It is easy for people to complete the census online on any device, with help and paper questionnaires for those that need them. Households should have now received information via the post on the upcoming census and how to complete it online.