Survey to help drive strategic solutions to support the well-being of the Central Coast community

Central Coast Council is inviting residents of all ages and backgrounds to complete a community wellbeing survey, to help understand community perceptions of their own wellbeing and quality of life here on the Central Coast.

The survey is open until May 10 on the Council’s online community engagement hub, Your Voice Our Coast, yourvoiceourcoast.com/wellbeing

Melanie Smith, the council’s director of community and recreation services, said this research will help the council find strategic solutions to improve and support the wellbeing of the local community.

“Council plays a key role in delivering and advocating for services, infrastructure and programs that connect our communities and make the Central Coast a great place to live,” Ms. Smith said.

“Our Central Coast Community Wellbeing survey asks local residents to rate how they feel about topics such as community connectedness and support, their neighbourhood, personal safety, access to services and facilities, health and wellbeing – and generally live, play, work and grow on the coast.

“The results of this research will highlight where the Council should focus its efforts and plan future services and programmes, as well as advocacy with other levels of government, to support community wellbeing and address local issues. It also provides the Council with a foundation of community spirit following the global pandemic and current concerns such as the rising cost of living.

“This research aligns with our Community Strategic Plan, which outlines how Council plans and delivers community services, facilities and programs to meet community values ​​and needs.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said this research ensures the voice of the Central Coast community guides Council’s strategic planning and actions to support their wellbeing.

“I recommend everyone to participate in the study. We’re keen to hear from a wide range of locals across the region so that the results reflect the diversity of our community and help us understand the needs of everyone.

“A community wellbeing report will be presented to the community and also to key organizations and local stakeholders who support community wellbeing on the Central Coast.”

Give your opinion! The online survey is open until May 10, 2024 at 5:00 PM at yourvoiceourcoast.com/wellbeing

• Completing the online survey takes approximately 10 – 15 minutes.
• Residents who do not have access to online facilities have the option to participate in the survey by telephone or by completing a paper survey. For further information please contact Council Customer Services on 4306 7900.
• Responses remain anonymous and participants are not required to enter any identifying personal information. Demographics such as your age, gender and neighborhood help ensure the thoughts and feelings of a good mix of people on the Central Coast are captured.
• The Council has engaged a specialist contractor, Woolcott Research and Engagement, for this project and they are carrying out market research calls to a section of the community to help increase participation across the region.
• This research touches on sensitive issues, so if this raises personal concerns, people are advised to contact available support services. Contact details for local health and social care services can be found on the Council’s ‘where to get help’ web page.