Mackman Research is delighted to have worked with the Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (EIFCA) to complete a bench mark awareness study. The study took part at the end of last year and was commissioned by EIFCA to understand stakeholder awareness and engagement across Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
The purpose of the study was to assess the awareness/engagement of key stakeholders since the introduction of IFCA’s by the government in April 2011. The job of an IFCA is to sustainably manage inshore fisheries in their local area. The survey set out to assess and measure the level of understanding by the coastal community for EIFCA’s change towards sustainability as well as their requirement to balance social and economic benefits of sea fisheries against exploitation. In summary the survey sought to demonstrate how well EIFCA are ‘recognised and heard’ by its stakeholders across commercial, community, conservation and recreational populace. To achieve the highest response rate possible, Mackman Research used a mixed approach using a combination of an online survey (by email), telephone survey and face to face interviews. Qualitative face to face surveys were used to gain a response from more difficult to reach populations.
Client Lead, Paul Mackman said, “Our research team thoroughly enjoyed collecting the data for this study. Sustainable fishing has become a hot topic in government policy circles following a high profile ‘fish fight’ campaign which raised the case for fairer fishing quotas for fishermen and since the IFCA’s replaced the Sea Fisheries Committees in 2011. The study highlights some of the concerns which lay behind this move. Chiefly, the survey results provide EIFCA with robust data so they can move forward and target key stakeholders with engagement activities this year, strengthening coastal community cohesion on the subject of a sustainable seashore for all.”
Phillip Haslam, CEO of EIFCA, “We were impressed by the final report showing comprehensible results and recommendations. Immediately, we felt Mackman understood the requirements of the research. The team were easy to talk to, enthusiastic and worked hard to bring the project in on time and to a tight timescale and budget. We are looking forward to making the most of the research, to create and deliver a targeted engagement activity programme. We would highly recommend Mackman Research for research projects.”