Scottish Crime and Justice Survey: user workshops - summary

6. Workshop 2: User Engagement Strategies

6.1 Introduction

This workshop centred on user engagement, with a focus on the available SCJS user resources and the communication methods of the SCJS team. 12 people attended the workshop. Prior to the workshop, a paper was circulated to all registered attendees. This paper is available in Annex B. The paper provides background information, an overview of the available SCJS user resources, the methods of communicating SCJS related activity, and suggested areas for discussion at the workshop. The workshop began with a SCJS team presentation which provided an overview of the feedback and input received related to user engagement through the formal consultation and discussion events. Users and stakeholders were then invited to give their views and provide input on this topic.

6.2 Discussion

Attendees made comments and questioned various aspects of the SCJS resources and user engagement. In summary, three key themes arose from the discussion – the data and resources, the promotion of SCJS activity and materials, and accessibility and inclusivity. These themes and points of discussion are provided below.

Data and Resources

Comments and discussion centred on: clarity in the presentation of the available data, how the data could be accessed, and specific suggestions for improvements:

• It was stated that it is not clear where the survey data is located on the SCJS landing page on the Scottish Government website.
• It was stated that is not clear that Police Division breakdowns are available within the interactive data tool.
• An attendee stated that the Excel tables do not have individual category counts, only overall counts. An SCJS team member stated individual category counts are not presented as the percentages are based on the weighted results.
• Further disaggregation of the survey data was requested, and also that any disaggregation in data is made available to those who do not use the UK Data Service (UKDS).
• Regarding the UKDS, users stated that:
  • It was not clear that SCJS data is available in the UKDS
  • It was not clear how to register with the UKDS and access the data
  • It was not clear what is contained within the UKDS data
  • Data available through the UKDS may not be accessible for those who do not use statistical software
• It was stated that details, such as changes and naming convention of variables, should be documented and clearly available to users.
• It was proposed that a question and variable name code sheet would be beneficial.
• It was stated that the technical report and questionnaire are long and hard to navigate, making it difficult to understand if the survey contains questions of interest.
• An attendee proposed that an online catalogue or repository of previous data requests should made available to avoid repetition in requests.
• It was suggested by the SCJS team that to make the survey and resources more accessible, it may be beneficial to have a guide to assist users.

Promotion of SCJS Activity and Materials

Users stated they felt certain survey materials could be promoted more effectively to encourage usage, and communication could be improved in certain areas. The key points of discussion are summarised below:

• It was proposed that announcements for SCJS related activity are promoted on a variety of social media platforms.
• It was proposed that the SCJS interactive tool could be promoted better to encourage usage and improve understanding.
• It was suggested that the SCJS website could show examples and case studies of how the SCJS data is used by researchers or academics to promote further data usage.
• It was stated that ScotStat should be used to update users when a change to a publication is made. To note: all revisions and corrections to the SCJS are noted on this webpage. When this page is updated, a ScotStat update is issued.
• Regarding ScotStat, it was highlighted by the SCJS team that users must re-register with the new ScotStat service to receive updates. Further information and a signup form is available at the following link: ScotStat Register: Guidance
• Regarding the SCJS user group, it was highlighted by an SCJS team member that the user group is open for anyone to join by contacting the SCJS team via email: SCJS@gov.scot

Accessibility and Inclusivity

The accessibility and inclusivity of the survey and materials was raised. The key points arising were:

• The SCJS team were asked to investigate the possibility of making the survey inclusive of British Sign Language users.
• Additionally, it was proposed that the survey and all materials could be made available in different languages.
• The SCJS team stated that inclusivity and accessibility topics, including providing materials in BSL and other languages, will be discussed with the new contractors.