This summary report presents some of the key findings of the 2007/08 North Lincolnshire Adolescent Lifestyle Survey (ALS). The survey was commissioned by the North Lincolnshire Children's Trust Partnership and took place between November 2007 and February 2008, with the support of all but one mainstream secondary school in North Lincolnshire. The aim was to include at least a third of all secondary school pupils, with up to 750 pupils taking part in each curriculum year group Yrs 7 -11. The required sample size (37% of all secondary school pupils) was reached in February 2008, with almost 9 out of 10 of those invited to take part, participating in the survey. Most of those who didn't take part were either unwell on the day of the survey, were on school trips, or were engaged in work placements. As far as possible, we selected mixed tutor groups to ensure a good cross section of pupils with different levels of ability. An equal number of girls and boys took part.
The work was undertaken collaboratively with members of the Public Health Directorate in North East Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus. A similar report on their survey findings can be found at (www.nelctp.nhs.uk).
Overall, the results are very positive, with some measurable improvements on the 2004 survey. This is good news and represents the outcome of all of our joint efforts to improve children's health and well being over the last three years. The survey highlights some issues of potential unmet need, which may require particular attention by the Children's Trust Partnership, schools, families and our local communities in the coming year.
The results of this survey have already been used alongside other relevant information to inform the priorities of the next Children and Young People's Plan. They should also help secondary schools gauge how well they are meeting their own Every Child Matters objectives and inform their plans for next year.
