The consultation explains how decisions are made, how money is spent, and how residents in the Borders can contribute to the decision-making process. Participants taking part in the consultation will be asked to respond on a variety of the Council’s budget and community priorities.

Residents who have attended the council’s engagement events ‘Community Conversations’, which have been taking place across the region have already shared their thoughts on what the priorities are for their communities. The Council’s community engagement officers will be in supermarkets across the region until the end of October continuing to meet residents and listening to what matters most to them.

Councillor Euan Jardine, leader of Scottish Borders Council, said: “As we plan the budget for the next year, it’s vitally important that we hear as many different voices as possible from within our communities.

“Meeting our engagement officers in supermarkets or responding to the budget survey is a simple way for residents to share their views and help shape the future of the Borders. Your feedback can make a real difference as we prepare the Council Plan and budget for 2026/27.

“We invite all residents to share what’s most important to them during this consultation. The broader the range of feedback we receive, the better we can ensure our decisions truly reflect the needs and priorities of our communities.”

Councillor Leagh Douglas, executive member for finance, IT and corporate performance, added: “We know that every decision we make about the Council’s budget has a real impact on people’s lives. That’s why we’re asking Borderers to share their views and priorities with us.

“By working together and listening to your feedback, we can make informed choices that reflect the needs of our communities and ensure we continue to deliver essential services across the region.”

All 2025 Community Conversations events are listed online; you can also follow SBC’s social media channels to stay informed.

Further information about the council’s financial plan and budget is available online.

The Budget consultation can be completed online via Citizen Space from 20 October through to 30 November 2025.