Healthy Didcot Survey

Residents in Didcot and the surrounding villages for their views on health and wellbeing, with the aim of getting a better understanding of what additional support may be needed.

We received 1655 responses to our survey. 99 per cent were members of the public, with 80 per cent living in Didcot. Most responses came from Didcot South. 

Getting Around: 82 per cent of people use a car to get around town, while 62 per cent also walk. 

What People Value: Top things residents like about Didcot include:

• Access to local services (30 per cent) 
• Being near family and friends (29 per cent) 
• Green spaces (25 per cent) 
• Community activities (13 per cent) 

Community & Communication:

 31 per cent feel part of a local community (vs. 24 per cent who don’t). 

• 59 per cent don’t feel involved in local decision-making. 
• 44 per cent feel their views aren’t listened to. 
• 42 per cent can find relevant information that benefits them (vs. 25 per cent who can’t). 

Health & Wellbeing: 

• 61 per cent rate their physical health as good; 74 per cent say the same for mental health. 
• 75 per cent say spending time outdoors helps them stay well. 
• Key challenges include motivation (50 per cent), affordability (42 per cent), and lack of local services (34 per cent). 

Loneliness:

 61 per cent rarely or never feel lonely. 

• 32 per cent of people who do feel lonely say that more social activities could help. 

Lifestyle Habits:

• Most don’t smoke or vape (93 per cent), use illegal drugs (98 per cent), or drink excessively (75 per cent). 
• Of those who do smoke, vape, use illegal drugs, or drink excessively, 14 per cent want professional help to quit and 10 per cent would like community support. 

Support for Organisations: 

• Community groups say funding is their biggest challenge (80 per cent). 
• Businesses struggle most with recruiting staff and volunteers (67 per cent) 

The results of the survey were compiled into a report and is available to view here. This report, together with data provided by Public Health at Oxfordshire County Council, will be considered by a new, local Steering Group, which will work to create an Action Plan to address the issues and barriers identified. This report is available to view on th Didcot Garden Town webpage.