Health Matters forum draws good reviews from Sunshine Coast participants

“An upbeat, novel way to present a lot of information,” and “candid, honest responses from the department managers and COO” are how two of the 35+ participants in last week’s Health Matters forum in Sechelt described their experience in the 90-minute public discussion.

The forum, which covered off local results of the My Health, My Community survey, and also featured a game-show-themed, interactive presentation, was the first of its type offered on the Sunshine Coast. Organized in conjunction with Community Engagement and the Sunshine Coast management team, the event was designed to raise awareness and understanding of local health issues as well as offer Sunshine Coast residents the opportunity to have ongoing input into VCH activities by becoming a CEAN (Community Engagement Advisory Network) member.

Based on feedback from participants the event would have to be deemed a success as :

• 69% of respondents felt their views were respected and listened to.
• 84% of respondents agreed they had more trust in VCH as a result of their participation in the event.
• 94% of respondents felt the activity was a good use of their time and would participate in similar events in the future.