Health and wellbeing strategy refresh public engagement

Healthwatch Wakefield was asked to lead the public engagement part of the Wakefield Health and Wellbeing Board’s strategy refresh.  They undertook two surveys and focus groups from 11 August to 17 October 2021.  258 people took part.

Overall people felt their health and wellbeing (physical, mental and emotional) was good or average. The top three definitions of a living a healthy life were being physically fit, eating healthily and feeling happy. Most people felt that they are either living a ‘very healthy life’ or a ‘healthy life that could be a little bit healthier’.  The top 3 activities people were doing to lead a healthy life were physical activity, healthy eating and social activity.

The top three barriers to leading a healthy life were lack of time, physical and mental health. The top three things that might lead people to lead a healthy life were a healthier diet, more activities and more social support and contact.  People felt that if they were able to lead a healthier life, they would feel happier, have increased energy and better mental wellbeing.  People wanted more community activities, cheaper healthier food and cheaper leisure centres.