MORE than 340,000 calls have been dealt with by the free helpline for Scotland’s census, along with a further 60,000 emails and web chat enquiries, according to new figures published by National Records of Scotland (NRS).

This has included providing interpretation support in 26 languages including Polish, Arabic and Mandarin through the census interpretation service.

NRS is encouraging everyone who has not yet completed their census to access the range of support available to them by calling the free helpline on 0800 030 8308, by visiting the website census.gov.scot for advice or to use web chat.

Chief executive Paul Lowe said: “I know that some have not yet completed their return because they need help or are unsure of what to do.

“We have a range of support in place to help with any query no matter how big or small.

“We have been delighted to provide support and advice to many thousands already. For anyone who is worried or is struggling with any aspect of their census, we are here to help. Please don’t ignore the census – it’s a legal responsibility for every householder in the country.

“As well as interpretation support, guidance is available for each question in a variety of formats including braille, large print and Contact Scotland BSL service. Paper forms are also still available on request for those who need them.”

The deadline to fill in the census was originally May 1, but it has been extended until the end of the month.