Examining Quality of Life in Cambridge City: Insights from a Recent Survey

A recent survey conducted exclusively within Cambridge City by the Cambridgeshire County Council has provided significant insights into the quality of life experienced by residents. The survey, administered in December 2023, focused on various facets of daily living, including social interactions, mental and physical health, and the impact of external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Quality of Life

The findings of the survey revealed a mix of positive and concerning trends regarding residents' perceptions of their quality of life. Notably, a majority of respondents (60%) reported satisfaction with their social connections, stating that they see family and friends as often as they would like. This figure closely mirrors the average reported across similar surveys, indicating a consistent trend within the city.

Moreover, a significant portion of respondents (63%) expressed contentment with their leisure time, indicating a perceived balance between work, personal commitments, and relaxation. This positive sentiment toward free time aligns with the broader notion of well-being and work-life balance.

However, the survey also shed light on areas of concern, particularly regarding mental health and loneliness. Approximately 44% of respondents admitted to struggling with their mental health over the past year, surpassing the average reported across comparable surveys. Additionally, 38% of respondents reported feelings of loneliness, indicating a need for interventions to address social isolation and foster community connections.

The survey extended its focus to the well-being of families and children within Cambridge City. Alarmingly, 35% of parents reported that their child has experienced mental health problems in the past year, underscoring the importance of providing adequate support and resources for youth mental health services. Nevertheless, a majority of parents (71%) expressed satisfaction with their child's relationships with peers, highlighting positive social dynamics within the city.

Regarding physical health, 41% of respondents reported struggling with their physical health over the past year, with concerns ranging from minor ailments to more significant health issues. Furthermore, nearly half of the respondents (48%) indicated that their mental or physical health had been impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the pervasive influence of the global health crisis on residents' well-being.

In summary, the survey conducted within Cambridge City offers valuable insights into the quality of life experienced by its residents. While positive trends in social connections and leisure time were observed, challenges related to mental health, loneliness, and the effects of external factors like the pandemic persist. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions and community initiatives aimed at supporting residents' well-being and fostering a thriving, resilient city.

You can see the rest of the summary report including other areas of Cambridgeshire here >> https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/asset-library/Quality-of-Life-Survey-District-Report-December-2023.pdf