South Ayrshire Council News

South Ayrshire Council's Leadership Panel has considered the results of the 2010 employee opinion survey, which provides a clear picture of employees' opinions on a variety of areas.

Conducted during March/April, this was the Council's second employee opinion survey, providing employees with the opportunity to express opinions on the Council's strategic direction and leadership, performance, organisational culture and communication as well as their own role within the Council.

Almost 1,600 employees – 29% of the workforce – completed the 2010 survey. This was similar to the 28% overall return rate for the first survey in 2008.

Responses to 16 of the 26 questions in the 2010 survey could be measured against the 2008 survey results. Of these, 11 showed an increase in employee satisfaction, including an increase in the number of respondents who believe the Council is committed to establishing South Ayrshire as the most dynamic, inclusive and sustainable community in Scotland, providing high quality services to customers

Five responses showed a decrease in employee satisfaction (although three of these still showed high levels of satisfaction) including the number of respondents who understand how their job role contributes to the Council's vision and objectives.

Councillor Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: "Our employees are our most important asset and their feedback is vital in shaping what we do and how we work. The employee opinion survey allows that feedback to be obtained in an open and honest way and makes sure everyone can have his or her say. The next stage is to respond to these comments way in a way that shows our employees we are listening and taking action."

David Anderson, Chief Executive, added: "The employee opinion survey is a very worthwhile exercise and provides valuable information on what we're doing well for our employees and where there is room for improvement. The only people who can tell us that are our employees themselves and I would like to thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey and let their views be known.

"The results will now be used to develop tailored action plans at corporate, directorate and service levels to ensure we address the key issues identified in each area to make sure we get it right for our employees."