From the Kimberley to the Great Southern: more than 3,500 children share their views on health and wellbeing

More than 3,500 children and young people students from across WA have so far had their say in WA’s first Speaking Out Survey.

Commissioner for Children and Young People Colin Pettit said the survey had been well received by children and young people in communities around WA.

“Students from all regions have participated so far, sharing their views on a range of health and wellbeing topics,” Mr Pettit said.

“Surveying will continue in the next school term in both metropolitan and regional areas.

“This is the first statewide survey focused on the views of children and young people across key areas of health and wellbeing.”

Students participating in the Speaking Out Survey have been randomly selected across Years 4-12 and their responses are anonymous. Each student is asked to share their experiences and views on safety, mental health, engagement in education, connection to community, poverty and how they access sources of support.

The Commissioner said that while most children and young people in WA are faring well, many need support and this survey would help to better understand what young people themselves feel is and isn’t working well in their lives.

The survey fieldwork has been undertaken by the Commissioner’s staff through schools and the survey data will be analysed by the Telethon Kids Institute in the second half of 2019.

Mr Pettit acknowledged funding contributions from the Departments of Communities, Education, Health and Justice for the Speaking Out Survey.

“The information gathered in this survey will provide valuable data for anyone working with children and young people, across government and non-government organisations, however, each of these departments who have provided funding will be able to access specific data to plan policy and services for children and young people,” Mr Pettit said.

The findings from the Speaking Out Survey will be published in early 2020.