AUTHOR: Ara Taiohi | ActionStation
2018 research involving online survey, interviews and workshops. The report gathers more than 1,000 young New Zealanders’ voices
and views about wellbeing.
Key findings from the engagement included:
- They want better, more accessible mental health services, education and support specifically for young people
- Economic insecurity, unaffordable housing, student debt and insecure low paid work are significant contributors to their anxiety and stress. Many want a kinder, fairer economy and meaningful secure work
- Almost half of the young people we surveyed chose “body image” as one of their biggest concerns.
- They want want to see an end to oppression of all kinds - no more racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia or ableism
- They love Aotearoa New Zealand’s natural environment, and they’re worried we’re not doing enough to protect it or our planet
- They value accessible and affordable education, but they worry they are not being equipped with the life skills and knowledge they need to be flourishing in the 21st century
- They've have grown up in the era of the individual, but carry an innate desire for community and communal spaces
- Young people need more great role models in their community, on TV and in positions of power and leadership
- They want to be taught about how to go about making change in their community and country, and people in positions of power need to get better at listening and being responsive
The authors encourage decision makers to engage with young people in the redesign of our communities, democracy and economy in ways that support all New Zealanders’ wellbeing.
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