The support for the third “Writing Themselves In” (WTI3) has been astounding! Over 1,340 surveys have already been completed… but we need more!

Since December last year, same-sex attracted youth aged 14-21 have been invited to participate in the third national “Writing Themselves In” (WTI3); an online survey on their sexuality, health and wellbeing. Youth workers, social workers, teachers and advocates such as ACON have really championed this survey. Thanks to their efforts in handing out the business cards, promoting it on various websites and encouraging kids to get online, over 1,340 surveys have been completed so far!

“These numbers are quite an achievement at this early stage, and we know we have our community workers to thank!” Dr Lynne Hillier (chief researcher on the project) exclaims. “From very humble beginnings almost a decade ago, this survey has really taken on a life of its own because the community has embraced it so completely. People really care about improving conditions for these young people in schools and other services.”

However, with a goal of between 2,500 and 3,000 online survey participants, ideal numbers are yet to be reached. One contributing factor is that many kids will hear about the survey once or twice, and yet forget to do it. Or they will start doing it and be interrupted. In some cases records show that quite a few young people will be almost finished and then forget to go right through to the final page and press “submit”.

However, there is still time for these young people to have their say! Remind your same-sex attracted friends aged 14-21 about the importance of voicing their experiences in the survey, and to press “submit”! Plus remember to do one yourself if you haven’t already. The survey is online at www.wti3.org.au until April 2010.

More info

To have some business cards and posters sent to your organisation, contact Marisa mjmonagle@students.latrobe.edu.au .