Data collection and publication - sexual orientation: guidance

Annex 1: Previous question versions

This annex lays out the questions recommended for use in household surveys in Scotland in the previous iteration of this guidance (published 2012). The question presented in the main body of this document has been developed for use in Scotland's 2022 census and replaces those presented below.

Face-to-face interview

Question: Which of the options on this card best describes how you think of yourself? Please just read out the number next to the description. (NB The numbers on each card are different for each person)

1. Straight / Heterosexual
2. Gay or Lesbian
3. Bisexual
4. Other
5. Don't know/Refusal (spontaneous only)

Telephone interview

Question: I will now read out a list of terms people sometimes use to describe how they think of themselves.

(Interviewer read the list to end without pausing: Note that 'heterosexual or straight' is one option; 'gay or lesbian' is one option)

1. Straight / Heterosexual
2. Gay or Lesbian
3. Bisexual
4. Other
5. Don't know/Refusal (spontaneous only)

As I read the list again please say 'yes' when you hear the option that best describes how you think of yourself

Self-completed questionnaire/postal

Question: Which of the following options best describes how you think of yourself?

1. Straight / Heterosexual
2. Gay or Lesbian
3. Bisexual
4. Other