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Residents encouraged to take part in island survey
Residents on Arran and Cumbrae are being encouraged to take part in the latest Scottish Islands Survey and help shape future policies and investment that support island communities across Scotland.
The survey, promoted by Islands Minister Jim Fairlie during a visit to Arran, aims to gather the views of islanders on a wide range of issues including housing, transport, healthcare, access to services and the cost of living.
Around 20,000 households across Scotland’s island communities have been randomly selected to participate. Their feedback will help provide valuable evidence to inform decision-making and support delivery of the National Islands Plan.
Quote: Our islands are a huge asset and we are lucky to have two such popular and beautiful ones here in North Ayrshire. Visiting them and living on them are two very different things and we are acutely aware that living on an island poses unique challenges that only those who encounter can fully understand. That’s why this survey is so important. If you have been invited to take part, please get involved and share your experiences and views. The feedback gathered will help influence future policies and investment, ensuring they reflect the realities of island life.”
Quote from: Councillor Alan Hil, Cabinet Member for Islands, Housing and Communities
Islands Minister Jim Fairlie said: “The Scottish Islands Survey is a national listening exercise that allows our island communities to share their views and ambitions directly with us.
“Only islanders can give us the full picture on what it is really like to live, work and access services in Scotland’s islands. I want to encourage everyone who has been invited to take part to complete the survey and help shape future priorities.”
The survey is supported by the Scottish Islands Federation, which says the findings will help ensure the unique experiences of different island communities are reflected in future policies and investment decisions.
Luke Fraser, Chair of the Scottish Islands Federation, said: “Scotland’s islands are diverse, with each community facing its own challenges and opportunities. This survey is an important opportunity for islanders to ensure their voices are heard and help influence decisions that affect their future.”
Ipsos Scotland, which is conducting the survey on behalf of the Scottish Government, is also urging those selected to take part.
Chris Martin, Research Director at Ipsos Scotland, said: “Islanders know their communities best. Every response helps ensure the voices and experiences of island communities are reflected in the evidence used to inform future decisions.”
Anyone who receives an invitation is encouraged to complete the survey and help ensure the experiences of Arran and Cumbrae residents and other island communities are at the heart of future policy and investment decisions.
Published: 05 November 2026