Have Your Say
Following a successful survey carried out by Low Hill and The Scotlands Local Neighbourhood Partnership, WOW (Women Organising in Wolverhampton) carried out a similar "Have Your Say" survey which targeted women in Wolverhampton. A simple questionnaire was distributed asking: ‘If you could change one thing to improve the lives of women in Wolverhampton - what would it be?'. Respondents could further expand on issues that are affecting women in Wolverhampton today. In total 140 people participated in the survey (94% of which were women).
Important issues such as lack of services for children, young people and mums were identified by 24% of respondents and safety issues were identified by a further 24% of respondents as areas that were in greater need of improvement. Many people would like to see better access to childcare, more activities for small children and young people and better facilities for mums - especially young mums. People also identified the need for streets to be safer especially at night, with a Police presence and/or greater security measures put into place including safer transport. Respondents said buses should run later at night and be on time. Several respondents also mentioned the need for a ‘women only taxi service' in Wolverhampton following a successful scheme in Birmingham.
21% of respondents commented on the lack of "Things to Do", especially for young women but also for older women in Wolverhampton. Many people would like to see more women only activities including discussion groups, exercise classes, bars etc established within the City. The need for "a women's centre to encourage enhancement of all woman's lives" was also suggested.
17% of respondents raised Gender Equality issues including social attitudes towards women and respect. Equality of opportunities for women (e.g.) equal access to jobs, funding, social & economic improvement and the capacity to ‘have a voice' were areas that respondents felt should be addressed.
Environmental issues were raised by 16% of respondents who commented on problems with litter, graffiti, lack of public toilets and parking within the City. 6% mentioned the need for improved employment opportunities for women and 4% mentioned the need for changes in legislation.
34% of respondents would like to see a significant improvement in various service provision for women (e.g.) health and sexual health services, mental health services, services for women experiencing domestic violence, services for older women, alcohol & drug services, HIV services, hearing impairment services, special needs services etc and greater emphasis on awareness raising of these and other related issues.
The survey revealed the need for "greater co-ordination between women's groups reflecting the diverse needs of women from all communities in Wolverhampton."
Elvira Wilson
WOW Member