Epsom and Ewell Council should be involved in campaigning for high quality local health services according to 97 per cent of people interviewed in the council’s citizen’s panel survey.
A total of 897 panel members were asked a series of questions on various topics including council venues, the environment, health services and housing.
The future of health services in Epsom and Ewell generated high response rates, with 89 per cent concerned about hospital services, 82 per cent concerned about care for the elderly and just over three quarters selecting the supporting people with mental health problems as being important.
Just over half felt that joint working with other Surrey councils on housing matters was a good thing and almost all (94 per cent ) were concerned about improving housing standards locally.
The need for affordable housing for key workers and first-time buyers was seen as important.
Overall 66 per cent of people questioned named Bourne Hall as their most visited venue, with the Ebbisham Centre and the Rainbow Leisure Centre coming in second and third respectively.
The majority of respondents said that the condition of roads and pavements which are the responsibility of the county council rather than the district council, was a cause for concern.
In the social sector of the questionnaire the top three issues were community spirit, supporting young people into adulthood and services to the elderly. Overall, respondents said that more should be done about anti-social behaviour and car parking problems.
Keith Mann, chairman of strategy and resources committee, said: “This survey has provided us with a good insight into what works and how we can develop our services to suit residents’ needs. The results will now be examined in more detail and ways to implement changes or improvements will be explored with feedback expected by the Winter.”
The council is looking for new members to join its Citizen’s Panel team and help give feedback on a wide range of issues and topics related to the Council and its services.
To join visit www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk call 01372 732000 or email C&C@epsom-ewell.gov.uk.
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