Definition : A statement made by the person about their current ethnic group – i.e. the description that they currently use to describe their identity. For many this will also constitute a personal statement about their religion. It is not a factual statement about nationality and there are no “right” answers. It is important that this is self ascribed as it will influence how the person views their self, how they wish to be regarded and consequently their needs.

Purpose : It is important that staff and services are provided to people in a culturally sensitive manner. Specific cultural and spiritual needs should be addressed in individual assessment and care planning. Aggregated information is also required for policy monitoring and service planning/development.

Further, there is a statutory legal requirement for public authorities to collect ethnic group data under the terms of the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000.

Recording Guidance : This item should be self ascribed. Where self ascription is not possible, this item may be attributed by the person’s primary carer or a family member who can give an accurate description of the category that would otherwise have been chosen by the person.

Codes : Scottish Census 2001