DCMS social surveys consultation
Read the full outcome
Detail of outcome
DCMS has published an analysis of the over 200 responses received to the social surveys consultation. It is clear from the responses, that users are generally content with the current frequency (annual), geography (local authority level data available every few years), content (current questionnaire topics), and time series (consistent questions with past years). The majority of users did not have a need for cross-referencing between the Participation Survey and Community Life Survey. Therefore, we are aware of the importance of not making significant changes to the user experience of the survey outputs and data.
We will continue to review and make adjustments to our processes, but any changes that affect the user experience will be communicated to users via gov.uk. Any adjustments will not affect 2024/25.
One potential change explored through this consultation was a merger of our two social surveys, to support coherence and drive value. Respondents were largely positive about this idea, but didn’t prioritise against the other factors. We will therefore continue to explore and refine options around a potential merger, whilst being mindful of any implications for comparability, granularity, frequency, and content.
While we make these decisions, and in the future, we will aim to constantly review our publications. We are also always interested in feedback from respondents to ensure we continue to meet user needs. To comment on any of our outputs, please contact us at [email protected]. To comment on the specific surveys mentioned in this consultation, please contact us at [email protected] or [email protected].
Original consultation
Consultation description
We are considering options for the structure of our social surveys in the future, ensuring that meeting user needs and achieving value for money remains at the forefront of any survey design. We invite views from all interested stakeholders in your current use of the Participation Survey and Community Life Survey and your priorities for future design.
Any changes would not impact the 2023/24 or 2024/25 Participation Survey or Community Life Survey. A summary of the responses to this consultation will be provided in a published response within 12 weeks of the consultation closing.
Digital data: In February 2023, a Machinery of Government (MoG) change resulted in the creation of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). From April 2025, DSIT will lead on data collection for the digital sector. The Participation Survey includes the following topic areas relating to the digital sector: Use of the internet and smart devices, 5G (fifth generation), Digital or online skills training, Data security, Methods of identification, Use of data, Data sharing and viewing content online. This consultation will therefore also cover some specific questions on the digital sector to aid DSIT’s understanding of the use of these statistics.
DSIT would value the opportunity to engage with you or your organisation further on your uses or needs of statistics on the digital sector. If you would be happy to be part of this engagement or have questions about DSIT’s plans for statistics on the digital sector, please contact [email protected].
Documents
Updates to this page
Published 29 February 2024Last updated 14 August 2024 + show all updates
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DCMS's response to the Social Surveys consultation, including a summary of the results.
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First published.