1. Is it compulsory? / Am I obliged to take part in the survey?
No, but having you take part on a voluntary basis is very important because you have been selected by a random process, like a ballot or lottery, so no-one can exactly substitute for you.
2. Can we do the interview over the telephone?
No, because the survey involves looking at some showcards. Therefore, it is necessary for us to interview you in person.
3. I'm too old. Why don't you talk to my son? He could better answer your questions.
We need to interview men and women from all age groups across New Zealand. Your answers are important to us.
4. Why do you want to talk to my daughter? She is too young to place bets or to smoke.
While most young people don’t gamble or smoke, we know from other surveys that some do, so it is important to find out what young people think and know about these topics.
5. Why are you asking me all these questions? I live a healthy lifestyle already - I don’t smoke or gamble.
The survey covers a number of topics. We are interested in everybody’s views on smoking, regardless of whether they smoke or not, whether or not they gamble (participate in gaming and betting activities). We are also interested in everybody’s views on sun safety, regardless of their skin type.
6. Do you need this information? Couldn't you get it from another source?
Information available from other sources is very limited. This survey will provide more complete information about New Zealanders’ views and experiences of sun safety, food and drink, smoking and gambling.
7. How has HSC used the 2008 HLS data? Has any of the 2008 information been used?
The HSC has used the results of the 2008 HLS in a number of ways. For example, it has helped develop our Face the Facts initiative, (see www,factthefacts.org.nz for more information). The 2008 data has also been used in submissions to government, including the Maori Health Select Committee Inquiry on Tobacco in 2010. To help inform the people who work in the health sector and provide them with information they can use, we are also starting to publish a series of fact sheets about some of the 2008 key results - these will be on our website shortly. Our researchers have also presented papers at international and national conferences such as the 2009 Oceania Tobacco Control Conference.
8. The Government has too much information already.
The data that is available through other sources is incomplete. New Zealand’s society is dynamic and there are constant changes in our way of life, attitudes, social and economic conditions. It is important to monitor these changes so we can act on the most up-to-date information.
9. These surveys are a waste of taxpayers' money.
The survey results will be used to help plan and implement health and community programmes to promote healthier lifestyles. Therefore, it is important that the HSC is well informed, so that we can use public money in the most effective way.
10. How will I know if all my answers will be kept confidential?
The information is held securely by the National Research Bureau (NRB). The HSC is bound by the Privacy Act to use this information only for the purpose for which it was collected.
