Fairday is here again. Be sure to come by the Curtin University stall, fill in your health survey and get your free healthy snack.
You may have filled out these surveys in previous years. The men’s survey is run every two years and the women’s survey was last run in 2006. The last time both the surveys were run together we got close to 2,000 responses in total. This year we would like to do even better! So help us reach our goal.
Why run surveys like this?
The information you give us on sexual health and behaviour, and social networks is used to determine trends. This helps in making sure future programs are well targeted.
The WA Centre for Health Promotion Research (WACHPR) conducts this survey through Curtin University in partnership with the WA AIDS Council and the National Centre in HIV Social Research. The surveys will provide information regarding sexual practices of gay, lesbian and bi-sexual men and women in 2010. This is used to develop health promotion resources and facilities to meet the communities’ future needs and demands.
Your survey information is then used on a state, national and international level. This is why it is important that you take part in the survey and fill it out as honestly as possible! This will ensure that the data is correct, and accurately represents the sexual behaviours of your community!
What is the information collected really used for?
As these surveys are Perth run and based, the information is analysed and used on a local level. Organisations such as the WA AIDS Council use the information collected to develop programs directly for the Perth community. This information will help us provide the community with resources and programs that the community wants and needs.
If you miss the WACHPR staff who will be circulating on Fairday then keep an eye out for them at popular local venues and events throughout the Pride Festival.
Your participation in the survey will help ensure that the facilities and services essential for Perth’s gay, lesbian and bisexual communities’ health are provided by health planners. Please set aside 5 minutes during Fairday to complete a questionnaire. Make a difference, and get your hands on some delicious free munchies too!
Rita Freijah
Project Coordinator, WACHPR,
School of Public Health
Curtin University
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