Collection methods

The data used to derive the 'Family Composition' classification are those collected for the 'Relationship in household' standard. The recommended methodology and questionnaire modules are detailed in the 'Relationship in household' standard.

The standard input categories for 'Family composition' replicate those at the four digit level of the 'Family composition' code structure (see the Classification and Coding page). For operational purposes, supplementary codes can be included. Where the people present cannot be deemed a family, for example when all of the individuals present are under 15 years old, the code '0002 Not classifiable' is used. In the Census, non-family/non-classifiable households are coded as Not Applicable '@@@@'.