In a bold move to tackle socioeconomic challenges and inequalities in Saint Lucia, the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment has launched the Saint Lucia Survey of Living Conditions and Household Budget Survey (SLC-HBS) 2025. This initiative underscores an unwavering commitment to collecting precise, up-to-date data to shape policies aimed at enhancing national well-being.
Permanent Secretary Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel highlighted the significance of the survey during its launch, asserting that understanding household realities across Saint Lucia is crucial for informed policymaking. She stated, “Our Ministry supports the notion that a clear understanding of the realities of households across Saint Lucia comes to light through robust surveys, and the SLC-HBS is no exception,” positioning the survey as an essential tool for developing data-driven policies.
The survey’s mission is to provide a thorough analysis of socioeconomic conditions, household expenditures, and the prevailing poverty state throughout Saint Lucia. Mrs. Emmanuel emphasized its transformative potential, stating, “The results of this survey will be the fuel for national policies, paying keen attention to inequality, which will in turn help improve the lives of citizens through meaningful and specifically designed social protection initiatives.”
Facing persistent issues like income inequality and inadequate social services, the government is determined to use evidence-based strategies to formulate effective policies.
Key objectives of the survey include:
1. Revamping social assistance programs for more equitable coverage.
2. Establishing partnerships to create inclusive, sustainable systems for vulnerable groups.
3. Identifying service delivery gaps to enhance social protection measures.
Mrs. Emmanuel urged citizens to engage sincerely, highlighting the importance of their participation: “As responsible partners, we rely heavily on your invaluable responses.”
The survey’s success relies on collaborative efforts, with Mrs. Emmanuel expressing gratitude to Mr. Shawn Mathurin and the Central Statistical Office, alongside other development partners and stakeholders.
Mr. Mathurin stated, “The primary objective of the SLC-HBS is to provide comprehensive, accurate, and timely data regarding the living conditions, income, consumption, and overall economic well-being of households throughout Saint Lucia. The insights gained from this survey will be instrumental in updating the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which in turn influences economic policies and cost-of-living adjustments.”
Innovative data collection approaches include digital surveys and mobile data capture, designed to enhance accuracy and efficiency while ensuring representation of Saint Lucia’s diverse demographic landscape.
The survey promises invaluable insights into poverty, inequality, housing, education, health, and access to essential services. By targeting poverty, it ensures vital support for vulnerable populations, with outcomes guiding policies and programs to reduce poverty, foster social inclusion, and encourage sustainable development. It reinforces not only national but also regional and global commitments, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The initiative’s success hinges on the active participation of 1,500 selected households, with assurances that all data will be used for statistical purposes only. Participants’ involvement is crucial in better understanding citizens’ challenges and crafting effective strategies to address them.
