Youth council wants the ‘voice of rangatahi’ for survey

Whanganui District Council has commissioned a feasibility study looking at options for youth places and spaces in Whanganui.

The study will be carried out by Impact Consulting, with funding largely provided by the Whanganui Youth Council.

The youth council’s support officer Stacy White says: “The youth council wants to see the voice of rangatahi front and centre of this study so that we get a clear understanding of what the rangatahi of Whanganui are wanting [and needing] in regards to youth places and/or spaces.

“We know there isn’t a onesize-fits-all approach when it comes to youth hubs, centres, and spaces for young people.

“Each community is unique, as are the needs and dreams of the rangatahi who live there.

“Impact Consulting has proposed a two-phase approach to consulting. The first, which is open now, is via a digital survey.

“At the end of May, Impact Consulting will be hosting a ‘World Cafe´’ event to connect with young people in person to ensure that the youth voice is clearly woven throughout the study’s findings.”

She says youth councillors are strongly encouraging rangatahi throughout the Whanganui district to take five minutes and complete the survey.

Josh Bruce lead consultant for Impact Consulting says, “We don’t want to pre-empt what is needed in Whanganui. It’s blue sky thinking and we are looking beyond just a physical space into how places and spaces create community and wellbeing for young people. We’re committed to listening.”

Two surveys are now open: one for youth workers, coaches, parents and those working with young people — and a second survey for young people themselves (11-24yrs).

Josh Bruce says, “The questions are simple and the survey short, but it’s designed to allow for thoughtful and innovative answers.”

Nicole Grey, from Impact Consulting, says she is excited about bringing her local knowledge and passion to the project.

“This is it — the time is now. As a community we’ve all been talking about this for years.”

She says, “The community has expertise and ideas and understanding about the needs for young people. This is the moment in time to collect those puzzle pieces and see what the big picture holds.”

“It’s important we can give clear recommendations to be actioned directly from people on the ground as a result of this study.

“Taking the time to fill out these surveys and promote them will help inform future decisions around what’s on offer for our young people in Whanganui.”

While the surveys will be promoted through schools, Josh Bruce says it’s important to hear from those outside the school system too.

“The 18-24-year age bracket is diverse and includes the likes of tradies and young parents . . . all of whom will really add to the vision of what young people want and need.”

The surveys will close midMay. “The number of responses does matter here — the stronger the data, the clearer the vision for the future can become,” he says.

“It’s also important we don’t duplicate or reinvent what’s already happening out there as Whanganui has a thriving and active community and some great public spaces.”