Survey opens in October
Jersey’s Statistics Office has announced that a comprehensive survey of the island’s children and young people will commence on 5 October and run through to 16 October 2026. The 2026 Children and Young People’s Survey is open to pupils from Year 4 to Year 12 and will be completed online. Participation is voluntary and entirely anonymous, offering a safe space for young Islanders to share their experiences. Officials describe the initiative as a “vital insight” into the daily realities of the island’s youth, covering topics such as physical and mental health, educational experiences, social media usage, and even exposure to generative artificial‑intelligence tools.
New focus on digital life and wellbeing
For the first time, the questionnaire will probe how often students engage with popular social‑media platforms and generative‑AI applications. This addition reflects the growing role of digital technology in young people’s social interactions and learning environments. The survey also asks whether participants take on caring responsibilities for family members and whether they have reliable access to sufficient food each day. By gathering this data, Statistics Jersey aims to paint a fuller picture of the opportunities and challenges that shape today’s young generation. Chief Statistician Ian Cope emphasised that the information will be “vital” for understanding the island’s youth, noting that the content has been co‑created with students to ensure relevance.
How the findings will shape policy
The results of the 2026 survey will be used across the Government of Jersey to inform policy and improve services. From health‑centre programmes to school‑based support mechanisms, decision‑makers will have concrete evidence on issues such as food security, mental‑health needs, and digital safety. In 2024, the previous Children and Young People’s Survey achieved strong participation: 87 % of Year 4 and Year 8 pupils responded, as did 84 % of Year 6 and Year 10 students, while Year 12 participation stood at 78 %. A total of 4,360 children took part, providing a robust baseline for comparison. The upcoming report, scheduled for publication in Spring 2027, will include a child‑friendly version to help schools and community groups discuss the findings with pupils.
Why it matters
Understanding the lived experiences of children and young people is essential for building a healthier, more resilient community. This survey goes beyond traditional educational metrics, addressing critical areas such as mental‑health wellbeing, nutrition, and the influence of digital technology—factors that directly impact future generations’ quality of life. By involving young Islanders in shaping the questions and guaranteeing anonymity, the Government of Jersey demonstrates a commitment to listening to the very people it serves. The resulting data will guide the development of targeted interventions, from enhanced support services in schools to tailored public‑health programmes, ensuring that policy decisions are grounded in the real‑world needs of the island’s most vulnerable residents.
