Editorial: Census move the right decision

Communication on a global level has never been easier, but there's a danger we may unwittingly be leaving people behind. PHOTO/GETTY

We live in a fast-paced digital world.

Communication on a global level has never been easier, but there's a danger that in our rush to rush to adopt newer and quicker forms of communication we may unwittingly be leaving people behind.

This issue arose this week in relation to the 2018 Census moving online. Some elderly, with limited computer skills, have found it a challenge adapting to the new format.

As we reported yesterday, those working with the elderly in the Bay say those organising the Census need to make sure all age groups can easily take part.

Tauranga and Western Bay Grey Power president Jennifer Custins said the initial Census letter about the option of getting sent a hard copy of the Census form was not clear.

It left people confused, she said, and so did the television ads.

A spokesman for the Census says there is help available to do the Census online or on paper. A helpline is also available for those who need assistance and field teams will also be able to support anyone who hasn't been able to complete their Census when they start visiting households in mid-March.

The move towards online forms makes sense. It's a lot more convenient, and no doubt more accessible, for a large section of the population to complete the Census in this way.

The transition represents a significant change, and it's not surprising some in the community have found it difficult to adjust.

Those organising the Census were aware of this and made significant efforts to address this.

Hopefully, the concerns raised by groups representing the elderly will be taken on board, and the process will be more straightforward for everyone next time around.