In total 750 interviews were conducted, which is approximately a 10% sample of Midlothian Council tenants, was carried out by the Knowledge Partnership, an independent market research company. The sample was drawn to be representative of the number of council properties in each area whilst also ensuring that the views of tenants in some of the smaller settlements were also represented.

All Registered Social Landlords in Scotland need to ask tenants some specific questions the results of which are reported on an annual basis as part of the Annual Return on the Social Housing Charter. This enables comparison between Registered Social Landlords on a range of indicators of performance. 

To ensure fairness, Midlothian Tenants Panel and tenants groups were consulted for their views about the questions being asked in the survey prior to the final questions being agreed.

Overall, the report found high satisfaction levels among council tenants.

• 82% of respondents have overall satisfaction with the housing service. The Scottish council social housing average is currently 80%.
• 78% are happy with tenant participation
• 84% of respondents are happy with the quality of housing
• 72% of respondents are happy with the repairs service
• 81% of respondents feel that the housing service provides value for money
• 86% are happy with neighbourhood management
• 80% are happy that they are kept informed

Councillor Stuart McKenzie, cabinet member with responsibilities for Housing, said: “I’m pleased the overall results show that the majority of our surveyed tenants are satisfied with the work we’re doing. We can always do more so we will be looking closely at the results to look for areas of improvement. We want to get the right repair done right first time at the right time every time. The Tenant Participation Survey is a great way for our tenants to tell us what they think of our service and how it can be improved.”