OIC survey results shows communication is a priority

While folk in Orkney don’t wish to do away with traditional methods of speaking to the council, such as face-to-face meetings, but they would like to make greater use of electronic means of communication.

These are some of the findings taken from Orkney Islands Council’s Change Programme survey, which the local authority reports saw more than 740 submissions, with contributions coming from across the county.

The survey was launched last November and provided folk in the county with an opportunity to comment on current services and offer ideas on ways to help make sure services are as cost-effective as possible.

The council says the feedback showed that folk want to retain contact methods such as face-to-face meetings, phone calls and letters, but would also like to make better use of email, the OIC website and social media, when it comes to communicating with the council.

OIC Chief Executive Alistair Buchan said: “There was an excellent response to the survey – it’s very welcome that so many people from all parts of Orkney took the time to take part.

“The survey provided us with important feedback on how people view our services and I’m pleased that this indicates a good level of satisfaction across a broad range of the services we provide.

“Ideas for service improvements were suggested, covering everything from changes to the opening times for some of our facilities, to ways we can encourage recycling and a wider use of electric vehicles.

The council reports that, of the responses received, 727, or 98 per cent, were provided online, with just 16 paper copies submitted.