Launch of the Jersey Annual Social Survey 2009

On Thursday 25th June the States of Jersey Statistics Unit launches the 2009 Jersey Annual Social Survey (JASS).

The Jersey Annual Social Survey is now in its fifth year. The Jersey public have been extremely helpful in providing their opinions through this survey over the last four years, and this year a random sample of 3,300 households on the Island will be asked to respond.

The survey is designed to gather information on Jersey residents’ opinions and lifestyle. The information gathered can directly inform policy decisions, and helps to assess and improve aspects of Island life.

The Statistics Unit runs the project independently, on behalf of other States departments, who request the specific topics to be covered within the survey. The survey has a set of core questions asked every year, covering population demographics, economic activity and household structure, which are aimed at ensuring key census variables are updated annually.

The department-specific topics covered in 2009 include: Cultural activities and events, Child-care needs, Health, Carers, the States of Jersey Police service, Anti‑social behaviour, Moving house, Travel, Public Services, Pensions, and Primary healthcare costs.

To ensure that all the resident population is covered by the random sample of households, the household member aged 16 years or over who next celebrates a birthday, is asked to complete the form.

This year, for the first time, residents who have been invited to take part will be able to complete the survey over the internet, if they wish.

Commenting on the survey Dr Duncan Gibaut, Head of the States of Jersey Statistics Unit, said: “The Social Survey has proven to be an invaluable source of information for the development of evidence-based policy, and its continued usefulness depends on the public’s support. We had a very good response to the pilot run in April, and from this we know that people found the form easy to complete and the topics are relevant to the lives of Islanders.”

“I would like to reassure everyone that all responses to the survey will be treated in the strictest confidence and will only be used to produce grouped numbers. So if you do receive a form please complete it and send it back. By doing so you’ll help us all gain a better understanding of social issues in the Island .”

For further information, please contact …

Dr Duncan Gibaut, Head of the States of Jersey Statistics Unit

440403, d.gibaut@gov.je (from gov.je)