Survey on impact of Covid-19

Not seeing friends and family has been cited as a biggest negative associated with the coronavirus pandemic by residents in Perth and Kinross, according to a survey.

This was closely followed by issues relating to isolation, mental health and anxiety in the region-wide poll.

The survey was conducted by Perth and Kinross Council as part of efforts designed to evaluate the impact of Covid-19 on the county.

A total of 787 residents across all of the council’s 12 wards took part in the survey, which took place from June 24 until July 31.

The majority of those who responded were over 50 and employed or retired.

Of those who responded, 217 cited missing friends and family as having the most negative impact on them.

A total of 163 people said they suffered from issues associated with isolation, mental health and anxiety during the pandemic.

Finances, employment, home schooling and working from home were the next biggest concerns.

Thoughts on working from home were split, with 34 residents saying they didn’t like it, 22 saying they did and 45 declaring themselves to be neutral on the topic.

The most positive aspect of life associated with the outbreak identified was the opportunity to spend more time at home with family.

The survey also revealed issues raised at virtual ward meetings hosted by the council.

These included loneliness and isolation; loss of usual activities; lack of communication in other languages; internet challenges; lack of timely notice of council services being stopped and street layouts being changed.

Those attending the meetings requested a greater say in how services are delivered locally.

They also underlined the importance of facilities such as village halls and having them open to the public again.