Young people asked to speak up in regional survey
Young people from Mid Canterbury to North Otago are being asked what life is really like for them in 2026 - and they could win one of 15 $100 Prezzy Cards for taking part.
The Y Central South Island, formerly YMCA, is calling on people aged 12 to 24 living in the Ashburton, Timaru, Waitaki, Waimate and Mackenzie districts to take part in its biennial Your Voice Matters Youth Survey.
Running since 2014, the bi-annual survey asks young people about education, employment, health and wellbeing, housing security and the pressures they are facing.
The results will help councils, health providers, educators and social-sector decision-makers understand what young people need - and make better decisions about the programmes and services available to them.
“Our goal is simple: we want to ensure our young people’s voices are not just heard, but actively integrated into the planning that shapes their futures,” The Y Central South Island Communication and Marketing Lead Mary Strachan said.
The survey has been streamlined into one questionnaire this year, with new questions added about health and wellbeing, housing and living pressures.
It was redeveloped with University of Canterbury researchers Dr Valerie Sotardi, an associate professor of educational psychology, and Dr Victoria Leggett, whose research includes youth mental health, student wellbeing and the effects of social media.
“Working with Drs Sotardi and Leggett has allowed us to create a survey that is both accessible and intellectually robust,” Strachan adds. “Their expertise has been invaluable in ensuring we capture accurate data on the challenges and aspirations of today’s youth.”
The Y has conducted its regional youth survey every two years since 2014. Findings from this year’s survey will be compiled into a report and shared with organisations throughout the region in October.
“By understanding how our rangatahi feel about their education, employment prospects, and personal wellbeing and more, we can advocate more effectively for the resources they need to thrive.”