ONS Trans Population Estimate Revised: Key Findings and Implications

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has adjusted its estimate of the transgender population in England and Wales after discovering issues with the 2021 census question. The number, previously reported as 262,000 (0.55% of the population), is now classified as “experimental statistics” due to misunderstandings about the question.

Issues with the Census Question

The 2021 census included a new question: “Is the gender you identify with the same as your sex registered at birth?” This was intended to capture data on transgender individuals. However, the ONS has found that many people misunderstood this question, especially those with limited English proficiency. As a result, the data might not accurately represent the transgender community.

Oxford University’s Dr. Michael Biggs criticized the question for being too complex and potentially misleading. Stonewall, a prominent LGBTQ+ organization, noted that the revised data might better reflect the diversity of the community but acknowledged the question’s flaws.

Reactions and Impact

The original data led to unexpected findings, such as a high proportion of trans individuals in Tower Hamlets, East London, compared to other LGBTQ+ friendly areas like Brighton. This discrepancy raised concerns about the data’s accuracy.

Emma Rourke, deputy national statistician at the ONS, admitted that the question may have been biased against those who do not speak English well. The ONS has been urged to use a clearer question in future censuses to improve data accuracy.

Comparison with Scotland

Scotland’s 2022 census used a simpler question: “Do you consider yourself to be trans, or have a trans history?” This resulted in a trans population estimate of 0.44%, which is consistent with the revised figures for England and Wales.

Moving Forward

The ONS plans to refine its approach to asking about gender identity to ensure clearer and more accurate data collection in future censuses. This adjustment highlights the importance of precise questions in gathering reliable information on sensitive topics.

The revision of the trans population estimate emphasizes the need for clarity in census questions. As the ONS improves its methods, the updated data will provide a better understanding of the transgender community in England and Wales.