Starting February 23, 2026, households across the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg will begin receiving invitation postcards for the Nova Scotia Quality of Life Survey. This province-wide initiative gathers information on how people are doing in their daily lives, including social and economic wellbeing.
The survey is conducted every few years and provides a meaningful snapshot of community wellbeing. Results help municipal governments better understand residents’ experiences and plan services, programs, and long-term priorities.
“Your voice matters,” says Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile. “Completing the survey will provide Council with important information that will help in our decision-making.”
About the Survey
The Nova Scotia Quality of Life Survey includes approximately 200 questions covering topics such as health, affordability, job satisfaction, trust in institutions, and connection to nature. It is based on eight key domains of wellbeing identified by Canadians:
- Community vitality
- Democratic engagement
- Education
- Environment
- Healthy populations
- Leisure and culture
- Living standards
- Time use
The survey takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes to complete. Participation is voluntary and anonymous. Responses cannot be traced back to individuals.
Survey Administration
The survey is administered by Engage Nova Scotia in collaboration with the Canadian Index of Wellbeing (CIW), with support from the Province of Nova Scotia, the Government of Canada, municipalities across the province, and other partners. The previous survey was conducted in 2019.
Who Should Participate
One person per household is invited to complete the survey. The participant should be the household member aged 16 or older whose birthday is closest to June.
How to Take the Survey
Postcards mailed to households will include instructions for completing the survey online. In addition, the Engage Nova Scotia outreach team and partner organizations will host events to support participation.
Stay informed through their official channels:
Why This Survey Matters
The survey addresses many issues affecting residents, including health, affordability, public safety, recreation, loneliness, discrimination, sense of belonging, and trust in institutions. Strong participation will provide valuable data to help Council and staff make informed decisions and plan for the future.