The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has introduced a dynamic tool enabling users to explore animated flows of people based on Census 2021 origin-destination data. Released on November 21, 2023, this interactive guide offers a comprehensive look at migration and commuting patterns, providing insights into population movement within the UK.
Origin-destination data, also known as “flow data,” unveils the intricate movements of individuals from one location to another, offering a nuanced perspective on migration and commuting trends. The data utilized in this tool is derived from Census 2021, conducted on March 21, 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key features of the Origin-Destination Data Explorer tool include:
- Migration Flows: Illustrating movements from addresses 12 months prior to Census day.
- Workplace Flows: Highlighting usual residence and place of work dynamics.
Users have the flexibility to switch directions, visualizing aggregated movements to and from specific areas. Additionally, the tool is embeddable, allowing external websites to integrate this interactive feature seamlessly.
For those interested in delving deeper into the data, downloads are available on Nomis, encompassing a broader range of origin-destination datasets. A detailed user guide to Census 2021 origin-destination data is provided to aid in navigating and interpreting the datasets. The main findings from this data exploration are consolidated in the origin-destination data bulletin.
As the UK continues to analyze the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on population movement, the Census 2021 Origin-Destination Data Explorer stands as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and the general public to gain deeper insights into the dynamics of migration and commuting patterns.