Perth and Kinross Council

11 11/651 PERTH AND KINROSS COUNCIL

Council Meeting – 14 December 2011

VIEWFINDER TWENTIETH QUESTIONNAIRE APRIL 2011

Report by the Chief Executive

ABSTRACT This report presents the key findings from the Twentieth Viewfinder questionnaire 2011.

1. RECOMMENDATIONS

1.1 It is recommended that the Council notes the findings from the Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire 2011.

2. BACKGROUND

2.1 Expressions of interest for the Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire were received from Cultural and Community Services, the Corporate Communications Team and the Community Regeneration Team. Additional questions were also included by the Strategic Planning and Improvement Team to support corporate performance reporting. The final questionnaire sought the views of the public on the following topics:

¾ Sport and active recreation in Perth and Kinross ¾ Health and wellbeing - focusing on mental health ¾ Arts and culture ¾ Living in Perth and Kinross ¾ Communication and information from the Council

2.2 The questionnaire obtained a response rate of 64% (845 people) which is within the industry standard of 60-65%. The results therefore accurately reflect the population of Perth and Kinross as a whole, with 95% confidence, to within ±3.4%.

3. KEY FINDINGS AND FUTURE SERVICE PLANNING

3.1 Detailed findings from the questionnaire responses are attached at Appendix1; key findings are summarised below.

3.2 Sport and Active Recreation in Perth and Kinross

129

Thirty six percent of participants had used Sport and Leisure facilities within the last six months. The most common activity participants used facilities for was swimming for fun. Eighty five percent of participants rated the charges they paid as good value and only 4% rated them as poor value. Seventy three percent of participants used the same facilities as they did three years ago. Only 17% of participants were a member of a local sports or recreation club however 30% of Kinross-shire ward participants said they were members of a local sports or recreation club. Fifteen percent of participants of clubs used Loch Leven Community Campus facilities regularly which reflected the above finding. Only 12% of participants were a member of a private Health or Fitness Club, those who were members chose private clubs because they “thought the facilities were better”. Ninety Two percent of participants thought that Sport and Recreation was important to quality of life in Perth and Kinross.

3.2.1 The information on Sport and Active Recreation Services will be reported to partners at the next meeting of the Sport and Active Recreation Forum on the 26th of August 2011 and used to assist in developing action plans under the new Strategic Framework for Sport & Active Recreation in Perth and Kinross. The information will also be used to inform the development of services under the new contract with Live Active Leisure.

3.3 Health and Wellbeing

Thirty six percent of participants had looked for support in the past. Of those people, 82% stated that they were able to find the support they needed. The majority of participants (48%) stated that they coped with the “support of family and friends” during times when they were stressed or found it difficult to manage. The majority of participants (89%) stated that if they were looking for support in future they would go to their GP. The majority of participants said that in the past five years they either went on holiday or did exercise to reduce stress or help them cope. These were also the most likely options they would use in future to reduce stress or help them cope.

3.3.1 The Health and Wellbeing results will be used to complement existing data about the local population’s mental wellbeing. It will be used to support the work of The Joint Planning Team, which leads on the Joint Adult Mental Health Strategy; Towards a Mentally Flourishing Perth and Kinross partnership and The Health and Wellbeing Steering Group. It will provide evidence for setting up and targeting initiatives to build on techniques which people already use to improve their mental wellbeing when stressed. The results highlight that people often use exercise as a way of relieving stress and this information will be used to support joint working between partners in mental health improvement and create new opportunities for physical activity.

130

3.4 Arts and Culture

The majority of participants agreed that cultural events bring people together (83%), help them understand local history (69%), give them and their families something to do (63%), help them enjoy living here (65%) and make them want to stay in Perth and Kinross (53%). The majority of participants agreed that cultural activities help children enjoy learning (94%), help young people work together (89%), help young people feel more confident (85%), help young people be part of their community (90%) and give people of all ages things to learn (90%). The majority of participants agreed that cultural events make Perth and Kinross a more attractive place to visit (91%), support local businesses (88%), support creative industry (73%), encourage people to visit again (87%) and improve the national profile of Perth and Kinross (88%).

3.4.1 As a result of the Viewfinder survey a concentrated engagement programme will be carried out in September for the directly managed cultural services (arts, libraries, museums, music), using these results to highlight the areas where we need to undertake more detailed exploration. The project, “Culture Matters - The Big Listen”, will involve carrying out a world café event, a series of focus groups and a questionnaire which will be asking additional key questions about culture and the use of services. All of this engagement activity will form the evidence to underpin a wide-ranging service review of the operational levels of the services, which we anticipate will result in significant change to the service range during the early months of 2012.

3.5 Living in Perth and Kinross

Ninety three percent of participants were satisfied with the area where they live. The majority of participants (57%) also thought the area where they lived had stayed the same in the past three years, 17% thought it had improved. Participants stated that the top three things which would improve the area where they live were, better public transport, cleaner streets and better condition of the roads. Ninety three percent of participants were satisfied with Perth and Kinross as an area. The majority of participants (51%) also thought Perth and Kinross as an area had stayed the same in the past three years. Participants stated that the top three things which would improve Perth and Kinross as an area were, more shops/less empty shops, better condition of roads and better public transport. Seventy eight percent of participants were satisfied with the services Perth and Kinross Council provides.

3.5.1 This information is used by the Council to measure progress in delivering the local outcomes within the Perth and Kinross Single Outcome Agreement and is reported as part of the Council’s Annual Performance Report. The results give elected members and Council officers a clear insight into how residents of Perth and Kinross feel about living in the area. They will also inform discussions with partners and other stakeholders involved in the review and revision of the Single Outcome Agreement for 2012 onwards. A surprising

131

finding from this survey has been that participants suggest cleaner streets would improve the area where they live. This will be investigated further by the Environment Service, although it should be noted that national statistics show that for the past five years we have been ranked amongst the top performing authorities for having the cleanest streets in Scotland.

3.6 Communication and Information from the Council

Ninety two percent of participants thought it was important to be informed about the services the Council provides. The majority of participants (73%) stated that as residents, not panel members, they felt the Council kept them informed about the services it provides. Fifty six percent of participants read all or most of Perth and Kinross News. Thirty seven percent of participants stated they would like to receive a copy of Perth and Kinross News four times a year. Participants stated that the main methods they would like to receive information from the Council by are local newspapers, Council website, and Perth and Kinross News.

3.6.1 This information will be used by the Council to further develop its corporate communications approach and ensure it is communicating timely, accurate and appropriate information to Perth and Kinross residents, its business community, visitors, partners and the general public. Further analysis of the information will be undertaken to identify regional variations and develop an overall strategy and action plan which specifically addresses any issues.

5. CONSULTATION

5.1 This report was prepared in consultation with the Service Manager - Cultural and Community Services (Culture), Service Manager - Cultural and Community Services (Sport), Health Improvement Officer, Corporate Communications Manager and the Partnership & Improvement Manager and has been considered by the Executive Officer Team.

6. RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS

6.1 There are no financial implications arising as a result of this report.

7. COUNCIL CORPORATE PLAN OBJECTIVES 2009-2012 7.1 The Council’s Corporate Plan 2009-2012 lays out five Objectives which provide clear strategic direction, inform decisions at a corporate and service level and shape resources allocation. They are as follows:-

(i) A Safe, Secure and Welcoming Environment (ii) Healthy, Caring Communities (iii) A Prosperous, Sustainable and Inclusive Economy (iv) Educated, Responsible and Informed Citizens (v) Confident, Active and Inclusive Communities

This report will impact upon objectives (ii), (iv) and (v).

132

8. EQUALITIES IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EqIA)

8.1 An equality impact assessment needs to be carried out for functions, policies, procedures or strategies in relation to race, gender and disability and other relevant protected characteristics. This supports the Council’s legal requirement to comply with the duty to assess and consult on relevant new and existing policies.

8.2 The function, policy, procedure or strategy presented in this report was considered under the Corporate Equalities Impact Assessment process (EqIA) with the following outcome: Assessed as not relevant for the purposes of EqIA.

9. STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

9.1 Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is a legal requirement under the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 that applies to all qualifying plans, programmes and strategies, including policies (PPS).

9.2 The matters presented in this report were considered under the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Act 2005 and no further action is required as it does not qualify as a PPS as defined by the Act and is therefore exempt.

10. CONCLUSION

10.1 The results obtained from the Twentieth Viewfinder questionnaire will support the future planning and delivery of sport and leisure facilities, cultural services, and mental health care. It will also inform the delivery of our corporate communications and provide valuable insight into public opinion of the Perth and Kinross area which will support the development of all Council Services and the future Single Outcome Agreement for Perth and Kinross.

BERNADETTE MALONE Chief Executive

Note: No background papers, as defined by Section 50D of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 (other than any containing confidential or exempt information) were relied on to any material extent in preparing the above report.

Contact Officer: Russell Goldsmith, Research and Consultation Officer Address of Service: Pullar House, 35 Kinnoull Street, Perth, PH1 5GD Date of Report: 03 July 2011

133

134 Appendix 1

FINDINGS FROM TWENTIETH VIEWFINDER QUESTIONNAIRE

April 2011

135 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 CONTENTS

Page

1. Introduction 3

2. Results - key findings 7

3. Results - sport and active recreation in Perth and Kinross 9

4. Results - health and wellbeing 20

4. Results - arts and culture 26

5. Results - living in Perth and Kinross 28

6. Results - communication and information from the Council 36

2 136 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

1. INTRODUCTION

This report presents the findings from the Twentieth Viewfinder questionnaire.

1.1 BACKGROUND

Councils are required to consult and ascertain the views of users and residents in a much more systematic way than before. Adopting a customer/citizen focus is a key element of achieving effective Public Management and Planning.

Viewfinder offers a cost-effective method of consultation, enabling well-targeted research and consultation using a robust sample with expected high response rates.

A commitment to establish a citizen’s panel for Perth and Kinross was made under the Council's Decentralisation Scheme and following the approval of the Strategic Policy and Resources Committee on 28th October 1998, Perth & Kinross Council's citizens' panel, Viewfinder, was established.

To date Viewfinder members have been asked to complete twenty panel wide questionnaires

1.2 INTRODUCTION

Perth and Kinross Council takes a customer focussed and inclusive approach to decision making. Viewfinder, the Council’s citizens panel is one of our key mechanisms for consulting with the public.

The Twentieth questionnaire was sent out to Viewfinder Panel members in April 2011. The purpose of the consultation was to gather public views on a number of key topics for the Council. These included:

The questionnaire obtained a response rate of 64% (845) people. The results therefore accurately reflect the population of Perth and Kinross as a whole, with 95% confidence, to within ±3.4%. Where possible throughout the report findings have been compared with previous Viewfinder questionnaires.

3 137 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

1.3 THE PANEL

Viewfinder is a sample of 1300 Perth and Kinross residents, which is broadly representative of the demographic characteristics of the population of Perth and Kinross. All panel members have agreed to participate in up to four postal surveys per annum.

Using the electoral register, a random sample of 10,000 Perth and Kinross residents was identified and sent a recruitment questionnaire following the launch of the panel in January 1999. From this initial sample 2,255 (23%) returns were received. A process to check the profile of the participants by local electoral boundaries against key demographic factors - age, sex, employment, ethnic origin, housing tenure - was then undertaken to ensure a broadly representative 'best fit' panel of residents was selected. Although the response to the initial recruitment questionnaire was high, as expected, a shortfall in the numbers of 17-24 year olds was identified. Face to face recruitment was conducted to ensure that this group was represented on the panel.

The panel has undergone four large-scale refreshments between 1999 and 2007. The same methodology outlined above was used for these refreshment exercises.

Within the current panel, shortfalls were identified in males aged 18-34 and females aged 25-34. In order to address these shortfalls targeted recruitment was carried out in October 2010 with 45 new members being recruited within these age groups. To ensure that the panel remains representative, panel members who drop out are replaced on an on-going basis by equivalent volunteers who are held on a reserve list.

Copies of the findings of previous Viewfinder questionnaires can be obtained from the Viewfinder pages of the Council’s website. Alternatively you can contact the Strategic Planning and Improvement Team on 01738 475505 or email: [email protected].

4 138 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

1.4 DEFINITIONS

The following definitions have been used throughout this report:

¾ When reference is made in the text to a 'net' result, this means the negative result subtracted from the positive to give the 'balance', either positive or negative for example, agree-disagree = ‘net’ agree.

¾ Where responses do not sum to the total (100%), this may be due to multiple responses or computer rounding.

¾ Percentages are based on the total number of respondents who answered the question and expressed an opinion.

Social Group Definition

Social Group Occupation of Head of Household A Upper middle class Higher managerial, administrative or professional B Middle class Intermediate managerial, administrative or professional

C1 Lower middle class Intermediate clerical and junior managerial, administrative or professional

C2 Skilled working class Skilled manual workers

D Working class Semi and unskilled manual workers

E Those at the lowest State pensioners, etc. with no other earnings levels of subsistence

5 139 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

The geographical analysis referred to in this report is based on twelve 2007 ward areas. The table below details which settlements come under each ward area.

Ward Ward name Settlement within wards area 1 Carse of Gowrie • Abernyte • Kingoodie • Glencarse • Longforgan • Inchture • Errol • Invergowrie • St Madoes 2 Strathmore • Alyth • Meigle • Balbeggie • New Alyth • Burrelton • Scone • Coupar Angus • Wolfhill • Guildtown • Woodside • Kettins 3 Blairgowrie and the Glens • Blairgowrie • Kirkmichael 4 Highland • Aberfeldy • Kenmore • Aldclune • Killiecrankie • Ballinluig • Kinloch Rannoch • Blair Atholl • Pitlochry • 5 Strathtay • Bankfoot • Meikleour • Birnam • Murthly • Dunkeld • Spittalfield • Gellyburn • Stanley • Luncarty 6 Strathearn • Comrie • Gilmerton • Crieff • St Fillans 7 Strathallan • Aberuthven • Glendevon • Auchterarder • Gleneagles • Blackford • Greenloaning • Braco • Muthill • Dunning 8 Kinross-shire • Blairingone • Kinross • Crook of Devon • Milnathort • Drum • Powmill • Glenfarg • Scotlandwell • Kinnesswood • Wester/Easter Balgeddie 9 Almond and Earn • Abernethy • Methven • Almondbank • Forgandenny • Bridge of Earn • Pitcairngreen 10 Perth City South • Bridgend • Kinnoull • Central Area • Old Muirton • Friarton • North Inch • Gannochy • North Muirton 11 Perth City North • Fairfield • Letham • Hillyland • Tulloch • Inveralmond • Western Edge North 12 Perth City Centre • Burghmuir • Oakbank • Craigie • Upper Craigie • Moncreiffe • Western Edge South

6 140 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

2. RESULTS OF QUESTIONNAIRE

2.1 KEY FINDINGS

SPORT AND ACTIVE RECREATION IN PERTH AND KINROSS

The majority of participants (66%) stated that they prefer to take part in informal physical activity such as walking or cycling. The most frequently used Sport and Leisure facility in Perth and Kinross was Perth Leisure Pool followed by Bell’s Sports Centre. Thirty six percent of participants had used Sport and Leisure facilities within the last six months. The most common activity participants used facilities for was swimming for fun. Eighty five percent of participants rated the charges they paid as good value and only 4% rated them as poor value. Seventy three percent of participants used the same facilities as they did three years ago. Only 17% of participants were a member of a local sports or recreation club however 30% of Kinross-shire ward participants said they were members of a local sports or recreation club. Fifteen percent of participants of clubs used Loch Leven Community Campus facilities regularly which reflected the above finding. Only 12% of participants were a member of a private Health or Fitness Club, those who were members chose private clubs because they “thought the facilities were better”. Ninety Two percent of participants thought that Sport and Recreation was important to quality of life in Perth and Kinross.

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

ARTS AND CULTURE

7 141 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 LIVING IN PERTH AND KINROSS

Ninety three percent of participants were satisfied with the area where they live. The majority of participants (53%) also thought the area where they lived had stayed the same in the past three years. Participants stated that the top three things which would improve the area where they live were, better public transport, cleaner streets and better condition of the roads. Ninety three percent of participants were satisfied with Perth and Kinross. The majority of participants (51%) also thought Perth and Kinross had stayed the same in the past three years. Participants stated that the top three things which would improve Perth and Kinross were, more shops/less empty shops, better condition of roads and better public transport. Seventy eight percent of participants were satisfied with the services Perth and Kinross Council provides.

COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION FROM THE COUNCIL

8 142 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

2.2 SPORT AND ACTIVE RECREATION IN PERTH AND KINROSS

This section of the questionnaire looked at the usage habits of Sport and Leisure facilities within Perth & Kinross to assess if habits had changed since the new Community Campus facilities have become available.

Q1 Which type of activities do you generally prefer to participate in?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state which types of activity they preferred to take part in. Fig 2.2.1 details the results below.

Fig 2.2.1

Which type of activities do you generally prefer to participate in?

70% 66%

60%

50%

40%

30% 23% 20%

Percentage of Participants 7% 10% 5%

0% Informal physical activity Active recreation Sport None Type of Activity

Fig 2.2.1 shows that the majority of participants (66%) preferred informal physical activity such as walking or cycling, whilst 23% preferred active recreation such as going to the gym, swimming or hill walking and 5% preferred structured competitive sports. The remaining 7% said they preferred none of the options.

Results were consistent across all demographics. There were two notable exceptions: more participants from the Strathallan ward preferred active recreation (29%) and sport (7%) in comparison to the Perth and Kinross averages shown above; and more participants who considered themselves disabled chose “none of the above” (17%) compared to those who stated they are not disabled (4%).

9 143 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q2a How often have you used these facilities in the past year?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state how often they had used Sport and Leisure facilities in the past year. Table 2.2.1 details the results below.

Table 2.2.1

Frequent Occasional Users Infrequent Users Never use Perth Leisure Pool 12% 15% 28% 45% Bell's Sports Centre 7% 8% 25% 60% Live Active Rodney 4% 4% 12% 80% Live Active Letham 2% 1% 6% 91% Live Active Atholl 0% 1% 3% 96% Live Active Loch Leven 3% 2% 4% 91% Live Active Blairgowrie 3% 1% 5% 91% Live Active Auchterarder 0% 2% 2% 96% Loch Leven Community Campus 3% 3% 2% 92% North Inch Community Campus 3% 4% 2% 91% Strathearn Community Campus 4% 2% 4% 90% Breadalbane Community Campus 2% 1% 3% 95% Glenearn Community Campus 1% 1% 2% 95% Blairgowrie Community Campus 2% 1% 3% 94%

Table 2.2.1 shows that the most frequently used facility by panel members was Perth Leisure Pool followed by Bell’s Sports Centre and Live Active Rodney. These findings are consistent with both Viewfinder 7 and 9. The least frequently used facility overall was Live Active Atholl.

As would be expected, across all the facilities frequency of use increased with closer proximity; for example more usage was recorded for Live Active Auchterarder among Strathallan residents than other areas. The results, for those facilities which existed at the time, are consistent with the previous results from Viewfinder questionnaires 7 and 9. Within Kinross-shire ward, 26% of residents were frequent users of both Live Active facilities and the new Community Campus facilities. This was not the case for other areas; for example in Blairgowrie and the Glens ward 10% of residents were frequent users of the Community Campus facilities, whereas 17% were frequent users of Live Active Blairgowrie. The most frequently used of the Community Campus Facilities was Strathearn Community Campus.

The current results also found that 21% of 18-24 year olds use Perth Leisure Pool and Live Active Rodney frequently which is higher than all other facilities for that age group. Viewfinder questionnaires 7 and 9 also found that usage amongst younger age groups was greater for these two facilities. However, it should be noted that these are small numbers.

A final point to note is that 3% of participants stated they have used the North Inch Community Campus “but not within the past year”. However, the North Inch Community Campus opened in September 2010. This may therefore be an erroneous result, but could also be interpreted as participants suggesting they have not used it since January but did use the facilities in 2010.

10 144 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q2b Have you used any of these leisure facilities in the last six months?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state if they had used the facilities in question 2a in the last six months. Fig 2.2.2 details the results below.

Fig 2.2.2

Have you used any of these leisure facilities in the last six months?

Yes 36%

No 64%

Fig 2.2.2 shows that the majority of participants (64%) said they had not used the facilities in the past six months, whilst 36% said they had.

Further analysis shows that more participants aged between18-44 (63%) had used facilities in the last six months compared to those age 45+ (30%). The results for other demographics were largely consistent.

11 145 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q2c Why have you not used these facilities in the last six months?

Those participants who answered no in question 2b were asked to state the reason they had not used the facilities in the past six months. Table 2.2.2 details the results below.

Table 2.2.2

Reasons Viewfinder 7 Viewfinder 9 Viewfinder 20 Prefer other leisure activities 30% 37% 22% Poor health - - 18% Member of a private gym or club 10% 17% 16 % Not interested in exercise or sport 27% 14% 15% I don't like going when it is very busy 9% 16% 12% Timing of classes is not convenient 4% 8% 10% Use other facilities - - 10% Would like to but I am too self conscious 11% 9% 8% Think that the facilities / activities are too 7% 8% 8% expensive Too old - 8% 5% Think that the facilities are poor 0% 3% 5% It is too difficult to get the bookings I want - 3% 3 % Lack of time - 7% 3% Lack of transport 7% 6% 3% No one to look after the children 1% 2% 2% Too far away - 4% 2% Can't afford clothing / equipment 4% 3% 1% Not enough support for disabled access - 1% 1% Other - - 1% Please note that the findings are not directly comparable as the questions asked were similar but not identical, comparisons have been made where possible. A dash denotes an option that was not available in that questionnaire.

Table 2.2.2 shows that the main reasons for not using facilities were: prefer other leisure activities, poor health, member of a private gym or club, not interested in exercise or sport. The results above are consistent with the main reasons from the previous questionnaires. However, the previous questions did not include the “poor health” or “use other facilities” options and it is interesting to note that in this edition these were both amongst the top reasons.

12 146 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q3a What activities have you taken part in at these leisure facilities in the past six months?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state what activities they had taken part in at sport and leisure facilities in the past six months. Table 2.2.3 details the results below.

Table 2.2.3

Activity Viewfinder 7 Viewfinder 9 Viewfinder 20 Swimming pool activities for fun 51% 69% 61% Lane swimming to keep fit 23% 33% 33% Using the fitness gym 17% 22% 29% Attending an exercise class 13% 14% 22% Individual sport 9% 19% 17% Attending a class or club in the swimming pool 7% 14% 13% Team sports 6% 16% 13% Using the health suite 13% 15% 12% Attending a sports club or a class 0% 10% 10% Other 1% 2% 2 %

Table 2.2.3 shows that the most common activities participants took part in were swimming for fun (61%), lane swimming to keep fit (33%) and using the fitness gym (29%).

A similar question was included in Viewfinders 7 and 9 and the results shown above are mainly consistent with previous findings. The exceptions are that a larger number of participants stated they were using the fitness gym than in previous questionnaires. In addition a larger number of participants are attending exercise classes.

Results were largely consistent across all geographical areas. However a notable exception was that a larger percentage of Perth City North participants use the fitness gym (45%) and attend exercise classes (35%) compared to other areas.

There were also differences between men and women, with more female participants stating that they attended a class or club in the swimming pool (19% compared to 6%) and exercise classes (29% compared to 14%).

13 147 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q3b How would you rate the charges that you currently pay?

Viewfinder participants were asked to rate the charges they currently pay from good value to poor value. Fig 2.2.3 details the results below.

Fig 2.2.3

How would you rate the charges that you currently pay?

60% 51% 50%

40% 34%

30%

20% 11% 10% Percentage of participants 4% 0% 0% Very good value Fairly good value Neither good or poor Fairly poor value Very poor value value Rating

Fig 2.2.3 shows that the majority of participants rated the charges as good value (85%), only 4% rated them as poor value whilst the remaining 11% gave a neutral response.

There was little variation between age and gender, those aged 65+ rated charges slightly more positively than younger age groups. There was also little variation between areas. Participants in Highland ward rated charges most favourably with 100% stating they were good value and participants in the Kinross-shire ward rated them least favourably with 11% stating they were poor value. It should be noted that numbers in both cases were small and therefore are trends and do not represent statistically significant results.

14 148 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q3c Do you use the same facilities as three years ago?

Viewfinder participants were asked if they still use the same facilities as three years ago. Fig 2.2.4 details the results below.

Fig 2.2.4

Do you use the same facilities as three years ago?

No answ er 3% No 24%

Yes 73%

Fig 2.2.4 shows that the majority of participants (73%) used the same facilities as three years ago, whilst 24% stated they did not.

There was little variation in responses from men and women. However, participants in the 18-24 age groups and 45-54 age groups were more likely to say they did not use the same facilities as three years ago compared to other age groups.

There was variation among four ward areas compared to the average. In Blairgowrie & Glens, Almond & Earn, Strathallan and Kinross-shire wards participants were on average 10% more likely to say they did not use the same facilities as three years ago. This roughly corresponds with areas that now have new Community Campus facilities which are geographically closer to their areas than older facilities, so would have less travel time.

15 149 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q4a Are you a member of a local sports or recreation club?

Viewfinder participants were asked whether they were a member of a local sport or recreation club Fig 2.2.5 details the results below.

Fig 2.2.5

Are you a member of a local sports or recreation club?

No answ er 2% Yes 17%

No 81%

Fig 2.2.5 shows that the majority of participants (81%) were not a member of a local sport or recreation club, whilst 17% stated they were.

Slightly more men were members of a sports club than women. There was also regional variation with more residents (roughly double the average) in the Kinross-shire ward stating they were members than in other areas. There were also differences between socio economic groups with 10% more participants in group AB saying they were a member of a club compared to group DE.

16 150 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q4b Does your club use any of the facilities listed below?

Those participants who answered yes to question 4a were asked what facilities their club used. Table 2.2.4 details the results below.

Table 2.2.4

Regularly Occasionally Used in the Never past but not within the last year Bell's Sports Centre 15% 13% 2% 71% Live Active Loch Leven 5% 1% 0% 94% Loch Leven Community Campus 4% 4% 0% 93% Strathearn Community Campus 4% 1% 1% 94% Live Active Letham 2% 1% 1% 95% Breadalbane Community Campus 2% 1% 0% 96% North Inch Community Campus 2% 2% 0% 95% Perth Leisure Pool 2% 6% 3% 89% Live Active Rodney 1% 1% 1% 96% Live Active Atholl 0% 0% 0% 100%

Table 2.2.4 shows that the most regularly used facility by sport or recreation clubs was Bell’s Sport Centre and the least used facility was Live Active Atholl.

As was demonstrated in question 2a, usage in local facilities is higher for those who live nearer the facility. There were no significant findings in terms of the other demographics.

Participants who did not use any of the facilities listed above were asked to state what facilities they did use. These have been grouped as far as possible by type of facility as follows: Golf Club (15%), Bowling Club (5%), Ice Rink (6%), Other (18%).

17 151 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q5a Are you a current member of a private health or fitness club?

Viewfinder participants were asked if they were a current member of a private health or fitness club. Fig 2.2.6 details the results below.

Fig 2.2.6

Are you a current member of a private health or fitness club?

Yes 12%

No, but I have been a member in the past 26% No 62%

Fig 2.2.6 shows that the majority of participants (88%) were not a current member of a private health or fitness club, 12% of participants were a current member and 26% had been a member in the past.

The same question was asked in Viewfinder 9 and the results were fairly similar with 68% of participants stating they were not a member, 14% stating they were a current member and 16% stating they had been a member in the past.

There was variation between ward areas with participants from Strathallan ward being the most likely to be current members of a private health or fitness club compared to other areas (25%). Those from Blairgowrie and the Glens and Strathearn wards were the least likely (both 6%). There were also differences between socio economic groups with 15% more participants in group AB saying they were a member of a club compared to group DE.

18 152 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q5b Why do you choose a private club over public facilities?

Viewfinder participants who stated they were a current member of a private health or fitness club were asked why they chose a private club over public facilities. Table 2.2.5 details the results below.

Table 2.2.5

Reason Percentage Think that the facilities are better 60% Nearer where I live / work 38% Opening hours 36% Type of classes 30% No answer 6% Other 1%

Table 2.2.5 shows that the majority of participants (60%) who are current members of a private health or fitness club chose to use them because they think that the facilities are better.

Q6 How important do you think sport and recreation is in contributing to the quality of life in Perth and Kinross?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state how important they think sport and recreation is in contributing to the quality of life in Perth and Kinross. Fig 2.2.7 details the results below.

Fig 2.2.7

How important do you think sport and recreation is in contributing to the quality of life in Perth and Kinross?

70% 63% 60%

50%

40% 29% 30%

20%

Percentage of participants Percentage 10% 3% 4% 0% 0% Very important Fairly important Not very important Not at all important Don't know Rating

Fig 2.2.7 shows that the majority of participants (92%) thought that sport and recreation was important to quality of life in Perth and Kinross. Whilst 3% thought that it was not important.

Results were largely consistent across ward areas, however participants in Kinross-shire rated it as slightly more important compared to the average (97%) and participants in Strathearn slightly less important compared to the average (85%).

19 153 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

2.3 HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Q7a Have you or someone close to you looked for support in the past?

Viewfinder participants were asked if they or someone close to them had looked for support in the past. Fig 2.3.8 details the results below.

Fig 2.3.8

Have you or someone close to you looked for support in the past?

Yes 36%

No 64%

Fig 2.3.8 shows that the majority of participants (64%) said no, whilst 36% said yes.

There was no significant difference between geographies, however there was a significant difference observed between men and women with only 30% of men saying yes compared to 41% of women. There was also a difference between age groups with those aged 45-64 being more likely to have looked for support compared to younger age groups.

Participants who have stated they have a disability were considerably more likely to have looked for help in the past, with 55% saying yes.

20 154 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q7b Were you or someone close to you able to find the support you needed?

Viewfinder participants who had said they had looked for help in the past in question 7a were asked if they, or someone close to them had been able to find the support that they needed. Fig 2.3.9 details the results below.

Fig 2.3.9

Were you or someone close to you able to find the support you needed?

No 18%

Yes 82%

Fig 2.3.9 shows that the majority of participants (82%) said they were able to find the support they needed, while 18% said they were not.

There was no significant variation from the average in all the demographic categories for this question.

21 155 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q7c In circumstances when you or someone close to you have been stressed or found it difficult to manage have you ..?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state what they had done , when they have been stressed or found it difficult to manage, from a list of options. Table 2.3.6 details the results below.

Table 2.3.6

Response Percentage Coped with the support of family and 48% friends Coped and got on with it 43% Have never found it difficult to cope 13% No answer 7% Other 1% Coped in some other way 0%

Fig 2.3.6 shows that the majority of participants had coped with the support of family and friends or coped themselves and got on with it.

Q7d If you or someone close to you were looking for support now or in future what kind of support would be useful to you?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state, if they were looking for support, what kind of support would be useful. The free text responses have been grouped by theme in table 2.3.7 below.

Table 2.3.7

Response Percentage GP 47% No answer 36% One to one therapy with counsellor 18% Health visitor 6% Friends / family 4% Social worker 3% Other 3% Church 1%

Table 2.3.7 shows that the majority of participants said that some form of support from a doctor would be useful to them. About a third of participants left this question blank.

22 156 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q8 If you or someone close to you needed help or support to cope, how likely would you be to contact the following people for help?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state who they were likely to contact for support to cope from a list of options. Table 2.3.8 details the results below.

Table 2.3.8

Very Fairly Not Not at Don't No likely likely very all know answer likely likely Your doctor 60% 29% 5% 2% 2% 3% Nurse / health visitor 10% 22% 17% 22% 4% 23% A minister / spiritual or religious advisor 9% 13% 16% 34% 4% 24% Mental health services 6% 12% 15% 31% 10% 26% Social worker 4% 5% 16% 42% 6% 27% Helpline 2% 7% 20% 33% 9% 28%

Table 2.3.8 shows that most participants (89%) were most likely to contact their doctor if they needed support to cope and least likely (58%) to contact a social worker.

Participants were also given an ‘other’ box to record their own responses. Ninety one percent of participants left this blank, the remainder of responses were grouped by theme: friends and family (4%), counsellor (1%), Citizens Advice Bureau (1%) and the remaining 3% gave individual responses. Results for the question as a whole were consistent with the average across all demographics.

23 157 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q9a In the past five years have you or someone close to you, used any of the following to reduce stress or help you cope?

Viewfinder participants were asked to choose from a specified list any of the things they had used to reduce stress or help them cope. Table 2.2.9 details the results below.

Table 2.2.9

Yes No Don't No know / answer can't remember Going on holiday 51% 37% 1% 11% Exercise classes or physical 49% 40% 2% 9% activity Medication from the GP 30% 59% 1% 11% Self help books / leaflets 26% 57% 3% 14% Yoga, mediation or relaxation 22% 63% 2% 12% classes Relaxation tapes / CDs / 21% 63% 3% 13% downloads Herbal remedies 21% 64% 2% 13% Overeating or denying yourself 20% 64% 2% 15% food Professional counsellor 18% 68% 2% 13% Drinking more alcohol than 18% 67% 1% 14% normal Health Education sessions 5% 77% 2% 16%

Table 2.2.9 shows that most participants stated they either went on holiday or exercised to reduce stress and help them cope in the past five years. Health Education sessions were the least likely method to be used.

Participants were also given an “other” box to record their own responses. Ninety seven percent did not write a response, those who did stated they used “websites” or the “church” or gave an individual response.

24 158 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q9b How likely is it that you would use the following if you wanted to improve your emotional wellbeing in general over the next six months?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state how likely they would be to use items chosen from a list to improve their emotional wellbeing in the next six months. Table 2.2.10 details the results below.

Table 2.2.10

Very Fairly Not Not at Don't No likely likely very all know answer likely likely Exercise classes or physical 39% 22% 13% 17% 2% 6% activity Going on holiday 32% 31% 12% 13% 3% 9% Yoga, mediation or relaxation 13% 15% 26% 32% 3% 11% classes Medication from the GP 11% 11% 26% 39% 2% 12% Relaxation tapes / CDs / 8% 13% 26% 37% 2% 13% downloads Self help books / leaflets 8% 22% 21% 34% 3% 12% Professional counsellor 7% 11% 28% 39% 3% 13% Herbal remedies 6% 15% 25% 39% 3% 13% Health Education sessions 2% 8% 28% 44% 3% 14%

Table 2.2.10 shows that the majority of participants (63%) were likely to go on holiday or exercise (61%) to improve their emotional wellbeing in the next six months. This is consistent with findings in question 9a.

Participants were also given an ‘other’ option to state their own methods for improving their emotional wellbeing. Ninety eight percent of participants did not give an answer, responses for those who did were grouped by theme where possible and these included “Gardening” and “Church”.

25 159 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

2.4 ARTS AND CULTURE

Q10 Making our communities better places to live

Viewfinder participants were asked to state how much they agreed or disagreed with a series of statements. Table 2.4.11 details the results of each statement.

Table 2.4.11

Strongly Agree Neither agree Disagree Strongly agree nor disagree disagree a) Events like this bring people together 28% 55% 14% 1% 1% b) Events like this help me understand 18% 51% 25% 4% 1% local history c) Events like this give me and my family 16% 47% 29% 7% 1% something to do d) Events like this help me enjoy living 19% 46% 27% 6% 1% here more e) Events like this make me want to stay 18% 35% 37% 9% 2% in Perth and Kinross

Table 2.4.11 shows that the majority of participants agreed or strongly agreed with each of the statements.

There was minor variation between all the demographics for each of the statements, however none of the variation was statistically significant.

Q11 Helping people learn

Viewfinder participants were asked to state how much they agreed or disagreed with a series of statements. Table 2.4.12 details the results of each statement.

Table 2.4.12

Strongly Agree Neither Disagree Strongly agree agree disagree nor disagree a. Cultural activities are valuable in helping 41% 53% 5% 1% 0% children enjoy learning b. Cultural activities are valuable in helping young 35% 54% 10% 1% 0% people work together c. Cultural activities are valuable in helping young 34% 51% 13% 2% 0% people feel more confident d. Cultural activities are valuable in helping young 36% 54% 9% 2% 0% people be part of their community e. Cultural activities are valuable in giving people 38% 52% 9% 1% 0% of all ages things to learn

Table 2.4.12 shows that the majority of participants agreed or strongly agreed with each of the statements.

There was minor variation between all the demographics for each of the statements, however none of the variation was statistically significant.

26 160 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q12 Supporting the local economy

Viewfinder participants were asked to state how much they agreed or disagreed with a series of statements. Table 2.4.13 details the results of each statement.

Table 2.4.13

Strongly Agree Neither Disagree Strongly agree agree disagree nor disagree a. Events like this make Perth and Kinross a 38% 53% 7% 1% 0% more attractive place to visit b. Events like this support local businesses 35% 53% 11% 1% 0% c. Events like this support creative industry 26% 47% 24% 2% 0% d. Events like this encourage people to visit 34% 53% 11% 2% 0% again e. Events like this improve the national profile of 37% 51% 10% 2% 0% Perth and Kinross

Table 2.4.13 shows that the majority of participants agreed or strongly agreed with each of the statements.

There was minor variation between all the demographics for each of the statements, however none of the variation was statistically significant.

27 161 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

2.4 LIVING IN PERTH AND KINROSS

Q13a Overall how satisfied are you in the area where you live?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state how satisfied they were with the area in which they live. Fig 2.5.10 details the results below.

Fig 2.5.10

Overall how satisfied are you in the area where you live?

60% 52% 50% 41% 40%

30%

20%

Percentage ofparticipants 10% 4% 3% 0% 0% Very satisfied Fairly satisfied Neither satisfied nor Fairly dissatisfied Very dissatisfied dissatisfied

Fig 2.5.10 shows that the majority of participants (93%) were either very satisfied or satisfied with the area where they lived. Only 3% of participants were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied.

This question was included in the 17th Viewfinder questionnaire - residents’ survey (September 2007). The results of the residents’ survey found that 90% of participants were very satisfied or satisfied and therefore the results are marginally better for the current questionnaire. In the current questionnaire more people chose very satisfied (52%) compared to the residents’ survey (43%).

Further analysis shows that the results were broadly consistent within the 12 different wards. The biggest differences were between Perth City Centre (89% were satisfied while 8% were dissatisfied) and Strathallan (96% were satisfied while 4% were dissatisfied).

The current findings were also consistent with previous results in terms of age groups with more participants saying they were very satisfied as the age group increases.

28 162 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q13b Over the past three years do you think the area where you live has….?

Viewfinder participants were asked if they thought the area where the lived had got better, worse or stayed the same over the past three years. Fig 2.5.11 details the results below.

Fig 2.5.11

Over the past 3 years do you think the area where you live has ...?

70% 57% 60%

50%

40%

30% 24% 17% 20%

Percentage of participants 10% 0% 1% 0% Improved Stayed the same Declined Don't know Not lived in my local area for 3 years

Fig 2.5.11 shows that 57% of participants thought the area where they lived had stayed the same over the past three years, 24% percent thought it had declined, while a further 17% thought it had improved. The remaining 1% stated they had not lived in their local area for 3 years or they didn’t know.

Further analysis shows that for all ward areas the majority of participants stated they thought the area where they lived had stayed the same over the past three years. However there were some differences, notably Perth City North ward area, where a higher percentage of participants thought the area had declined (37%) compared to all other ward areas. There was little variation between the other demographics.

29 163 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q13c What three things do you think would improve the quality of life in the area where you live?

Participants were given space to write up to three things that would improve the quality of life in the area where they lived. A range of responses were received and 22% of participants gave no answer. Table 2.5.14 below shows the responses that were received:

Table 2.5.14

Response Percentage Better public transport 14% Cleaner streets 13% Better condition of the roads 12% More shops / less closed shops 11% Control volume / speed of traffic 10% More policing / feeling safer 8% Better leisure facilities 7% More activities for children / teenagers 7% Less anti social behaviour 6% Better car parking 5% Regenerate the area 5% More winter gritting / snow clearance 4% Less dog fouling 4% No more housing development 4% Better parks / open spaces 4% Bring more jobs / encourage new business 3% More cycle paths 3% Better condition of footpaths 3% Environmental issues 2% Recycling 1% More affordable housing 1% Better street lighting 1% Improved library 1% Demolish city hall 1% Encourage tourism 1% Better education 1% Better facilities for older people >1% Better public toilets >1% Other 14%

The key issues for participants were public transport, cleaner streets, road condition, shops and traffic speed.

30 164 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011

Q14a Overall, how satisfied are you living in Perth and Kinross?

Viewfinder participants were asked overall how satisfied they were living in Perth and Kinross. Fig 2.5.12 details the results below.

Fig 2.5.12

Overall, how satisfied are you living in Perth and Kinross?

70%

60% 50% 50% 43%

40%

30%

20% Percentage ofparticipants 10% 4% 2% 0% 0% Very satisfied Fairly satisfied Neither satisfied Fairly dissatisfied Very dissatisfied nor dissatisfied

Fig 2.5.12 shows that 93% of respondents were either satisfied or fairly satisfied living in Perth and Kinross. Only 2% were fairly dissatisfied.

This question was included in the 17th Viewfinder questionnaire - residents’ survey (September 2007). The results of the residents’ survey also found that 93% of participants were very satisfied or satisfied. Similarly to question 13a, more people chose very satisfied in the current questionnaire (50%) compared to the residents’ survey (47%).

Further analysis shows that the results were broadly consistent within the 12 different wards. The biggest differences were between Perth City South (88% were satisfied while, 6% were dissatisfied) and Highland (98% were satisfied, while 0% were dissatisfied).

The current findings were also consistent with previous results in terms of age groups with more participants saying they were very satisfied as the age group increases.

31 165 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q14b Over the past three years do you think Perth and Kinross has got better, worse or stayed the same?

Viewfinder participants were asked if they thought Perth and Kinross had got better, worse or stayed the same over the past three years. Fig 2.5.13 details the results below.

Fig 2.5.13

Over the past 3 years do you think Perth and Kinross has ...?

70%

60% 51% 50%

40%

30% 26% 19% 20%

Percentage of participants 10% 2% 0% 0% Improved Stayed the same Declined Don't know Not lived in my local area for 3 years

Fig 2.5.13 shows that 51% of participants thought Perth and Kinross had stayed the same over the past 3 years, 19% thought it had improved and 26% thought it had declined. Two percent stated they did not know and less than 1% stated they had not lived in Perth and Kinross for three years.

Similar to the results of question 13b, Further analysis shows that for all ward areas the majority of participants stated they thought the area where they lived had stayed the same over the past three years. However there were some differences, notably Perth City Centre ward area, where a considerably higher percentage of participants thought Perth and Kinross had declined (42%) compared to all other ward areas. And Kinross-shire where a considerably higher percentage of participants (32%) thought Perth and Kinross had improved.

There was also variation between age groups with the most notable being that 77% of 25-34 year olds said Perth and Kinross had stayed the same compared to the average of 51%.

32 166 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q14c What three things do you think would improve the quality of life in the area where you live?

Participants were given space to write up to three things that would improve the quality of life in the area where they lived. A range of responses were given and 36% of participants gave no answer. Table 2.5.15 below shows the responses that were received:

Table 2.5.15

Response Percentage More shops / less empty shops 15% Better condition of roads 12% Better public transport 9% Regenerate the area 7% Cleaner streets 7% Reduce level of anti social behaviour 6% More policing / feeling safer 6% Better car parking 5% Reduce volume / speed of traffic 5% More jobs / encourage new business 5% Better facilities for children / teenagers 3% Better leisure facilities 3% Better parks / open spaces 3% More cycle paths 3% Better winter gritting / snow clearance 2% Demolish city hall 2% More affordable housing 2% No more housing development 2% More cultural facilities 1% Better condition of footpaths 1% Recycling 1% Improved refuse collection 1% Better facilities for older people 1% Reduce dog fouling 1% Promote tourism 1% Environmental issues 1% Better education 1% Better public toilets 1% Other 28%

Table 2.5.15 shows similar responses to those received for question 13b with roads, public transport, regeneration and shops being key issues.

33 167 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q15 Living within Perth and Kinross

Viewfinder participants were asked to state whether they agreed or disagreed with a series of statements about living in Perth and Kinross. Table 2.5.16 details the results below.

Table 2.5.16

Agree Neither Disagree agree nor disagree a) I have a sense of community identity 56% 30% 11% b) I feel I have an influence over things that affect my area 25% 39% 33% c) I live in a pleasant, clean neighbourhood 79% 11% 9% d) I feel safe when outside after dark in the area I live 72% 13% 13% e) I have access to high quality health and care services 80% 12% 5% f) I have access to high quality education opportunities 49% 35% 8% g) I have access to excellent employment opportunities 13% 48% 28% h) I have access to affordable housing 19% 48% 23% i) I have access to good public transport services 50% 17% 31% j) I have access to a variety of high quality sports and leisure 58% 24% 13% facilities and establishments k) I have access to good parks, playgrounds and open spaces 76% 13% 8% l) I have access to a variety of arts and cultures facilities 68% 20% 8%

Table 2.5.16 shows that only 25% of people living in Perth and Kinross feel they have an influence over things that affect their area. Other key issues include having access to excellent employment opportunities, affordable housing and having good public transport services.

The same question was included in the 17th Viewfinder - residents’ survey (September 2007) and the results above are very similar. The exceptions were “I have access to excellent employment opportunities” in which 23% of people agreed in 2007 compared to 13% above and “I feel I have an influence over things that affect my area” in which 34% agreed in 2007 compared to 25% above. A further exception was the statement “I have access to high quality health and care services” only 72% agreed in 2007 compared to 80% above.

There was very little difference between men and women however the results varied considerably between ward areas and most other demographics. A full table of the results can be found in appendix 1.

34 168 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q16a Overall, how satisfied are you with the services that Perth & Kinross Council provide?

Viewfinder participants were asked how satisfied they were overall with Council services. Fig 2.5.14 details the results below.

Fig 2.5.14

Overall, how satisfied are you with the services that Perth & Kinross Council provide?

70% 60% 60%

50%

40%

30%

18% 20% 16%

Percentage of participants Percentage 10% 6% 1% 0% Very satisfied Fairly satisfied Neither satisfied nor Fairly dissatisfied Very dissatisfied dissatisfied

Fig 2.5.14 shows that 78% of participants reported that overall they were either very satisfied or fairly satisfied with the services that Perth & Kinross Council provide. Whilst 16% reported that they were neither satisfied nor dissatisfied and only 7% stated they were either fairly dissatisfied or very dissatisfied.

Further analysis shows that there were some variations in the results for the different ward areas. Satisfaction was highest in the Kinross-shire ward (satisfaction 82%, dissatisfaction 7%). This finding is in direct contrast to the 2007 results which found that Kinross-shire had the lowest satisfaction of all wards. However, satisfaction was lowest in Strathallan ward (satisfaction 73%, dissatisfaction 4%).

Net satisfaction levels were a little higher in females (73%) than males (67%). There were also variations between age groups. Net satisfaction was lowest among 18-24 year olds (40%) and highest among 25-34 year olds (82%).

Overall satisfaction levels in all areas were higher that previous averages. However, this appears in general to be a result of less people choosing neither satisfied nor dissatisfied rather than a net decrease in dissatisfaction.

35 169 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q16b Why are you dissatisfied with the services Perth and Kinross Council provides?

Those Viewfinder participants who stated they were dissatisfied in question 16a were asked to state why they were dissatisfied. There were 58 participants who stated they were dissatisfied and of those 14% did not answer this question. The remaining reasons have been grouped and are detailed in Table 2.5.17 below.

Table 2.5.17

Response Percentage Poor service from staff 24% Lack of information given 10% They waste money 9% Too Perth focussed 5% Cost of Council tax 5% Other 33%

Table 2.5.17 shows that the majority of participants had their own individual reason for being dissatisfied and the most common grouped reason was poor service from staff.

2.6 COMMUNITCATION AND INFORMATION FROM THE COUNCIL

Q17a Overall, how important is it for you to be informed about the services the Council provides?

Viewfinder participants were asked how important it was for them to be informed about the services provided by the Council. Fig 2.6.15 details the results below.

Fig 2.6.15

Overall, how important is it for you to be informed about the services the Council provides? 70%

60% 54%

50% 38% 40%

30%

20% Percentage of participants 10% 5% 1% 1% 0% Very important Fairly important Not very important Not at all important Don't know

Fig 2.6.15 shows that the majority of participants (92%) thought it was very or fairly important for them to be informed about the Services provided by the Council.

Results were consistent across all demographics and were similar to the results obtained in the 17th Viewfinder - residents’ survey (September 2007) which found that 94% thought it was very or fairly important.

36 170 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q17b As a resident (not as a Viewfinder panel member) how well informed do you feel the Council keep you about the services it provides?

Viewfinder participants were asked how well informed they felt the Council kept them about the services they provide. Fig 2.6.16 details the results below.

Fig 2.6.16

Overall, how important is it for you to be informed about the services the Council provides? 70% 64%

60%

50%

40%

30%

20% 20%

Percentage of participants 9% 10% 5% 1% 0% Very well informed Fairly well informed Fairly uninformed Very uninformed Don't know

Fig 2.6.16 shows that the majority of participants (73%) felt they were either very well informed or fairly well informed about the services provided by the Council. Twenty five percent felt they were either fairly uninformed or very uninformed.

Results varied between ward areas with participants in Strathtay stating they felt most informed (14% very well informed and 66% fairly well informed) and participants in Strathmore stating they were least informed (9% very well informed and 62% fairly well informed).

There was little significant variance in results for other demographics.

These results are slightly higher than in 2007 where 6% stated they were very informed, 55% fairly well informed, 32% fairly uninformed and 7% very uninformed.

37 171 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q18a How much of the Council magazine do you usually read?

Viewfinder participants were asked how much of the Council Magazine Perth and Kinross News that they usually read. Fig 2.6.17 details the results below.

How much of the Council Magazine do you usually read?

70%

60% 56% 55%

50%

40% 2011 27% 30% 2007 24%

20% 18% 13% Percentage of participants 10% 4% 3% 0% All or most of it A few articles Never read it Don't remember ever receiving a copy

Fig 2.6.17 shows the results of the current questionnaire compared with the results of the same question in the residents’ survey (September 2007). There is little variance between the two questionnaires however less people stated that they did not remember receiving a copy.

There was only slight variation between ward areas, however a significant result was that 20% of participants within the Blairgowrie and Glens ward stated that they did not remember receiving a copy which was 7% higher than the average. There were no differences between men and women. There was however noticeable age group differences with the older participants who are more likely to report they read all or most of it than the younger age groups who were more likely to report they never read it or don’t remember ever receiving a copy. This was consistent with previous findings.

Q18b Please tell us what information is most useful in the magazine?

Viewfinder participants were asked to state what they found most useful in the Council magazine. In total, 71% of respondents did not answer this question. The results of those who did were grouped into categories and they are detailed in Table 2.6.18 below.

Table 2.6.18

Response Percentage Events diary 12% Information about services 6% New developments 4% All of it 4% Other 3% Contact information 1% Spending / budget 1% information

38 172 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Table 2.6.18 shows participants thought the events diary was the most useful part of the magazine.

Q18c How often would you like to receive a copy of Perth and Kinross News?

Viewfinder participants were asked how often they would like to receive a copy of Perth and Kinross News. This was the first time this question was asked so it cannot be compared to previous results. Fig 2.6.18 details the results below.

Fig 2.6.18

How often would you like to receive a copy of Perth and Kinross News?

50% 45% 40% 37% 35%

30% 26% 25%

20% 12% 15% 12% 9%

Percentage of participants 10% 5% 5% 0% Monthly Every two Four times a Twice a year Once a year Other sources months year

Fig 2.6.18 shows that just over a third of participants (37%) would like to receive Perth and Kinross News quarterly.

There was only minor variation in results between ward areas and gender of participants. However, younger age groups were much more likely to state that they would prefer information monthly compared to older participants.

39 173 Twentieth Viewfinder Questionnaire: April 2011 Q19 How would you prefer to receive information from Perth and Kinross Council on the services we provide?

Viewfinder participants were asked how they would prefer to receive information on the services the Council provides. Table 2.6.19 details the results below.

Table 2.6.19

Response Percentage Local newspapers 61% Council website 47% Council magazine (Perth and Kinross 46% News) Leaflets and posters 30% From your local Councillor 18% Public meetings 16% Council magazine (other) 11% By email 9% Social networking sites 8% Social networking - e.g. Facebook and 4% Twitter No answer 2% By text 2% Other websites 1% Other 1%

Table 2.6.19 shows that the majority of the participants stated they would prefer to receive information in local newspapers with the second and third most frequent choices being the Council website or Perth and Kinross News.

Q20 On which topics would you like information from the Council?

Viewfinder participants were asked what topics they would like to receive information from the Council on, 63% of participants did not give an answer to this question. The results for those who did are detailed in Table 2.6.20 below.

Table 2.6.20

Response Percentage Forthcoming events 8% Budget / Council spending 6% Planning 5% Roads 3% Refuse collection 3% Recycling facilities 3% Changes to Council services 2% Leisure facilities 2% Cultural activities 2% Schools 2% Environmental issues 1% Facilities for older people 1% Other 9%

Table 2.6.20 shows that forthcoming events and Council spending were the most frequent topics amongst those who responded.

40 174