BVPI Surveys

On this page you will find information about the Best Value Performance Indicators (BVPI) General Survey, Planning Survey and Benefits Survey.

All English local authorities have a statutory requirement to undertake surveys on a three-yearly basis to collect data for Best Value Performance satisfaction indicators to ascertain resident’s satisfaction with the services the Council provides. These survey-based measures form part of the wider suite of BVPIs. Previous exercises took place in 2000-01 and 2003-04. Results are used by local authorities, the Audit Commission and the Communities and Local Government (CLG) to measure and compare council performance over time and between authorities.

BVPI General Survey

In August 2006 Mid Bedfordshire District Council commissioned Social and Market Strategic Research (SMSR) Ltd, an independent research company to undertake the Best Value Performance Indicators General Satisfaction Survey for the district. Authorities are required to carry out the survey to a standardised methodology as laid down by the Audit Commission.  Each authority is required to obtain 1,100 replies. SMSR sent out a total of 2,950 survey forms and 1,340 forms were returned.

The General Satisfaction Survey asked residents about their use of and satisfaction with a range of key services provided by Mid Beds District Council including:

  • Waste and recycling
  • Cultural and recreational facilities
  • Anti-social behaviour
  • Information provision
  • Contact with the council
  • Overall satisfaction with the way the authority runs things

 BVPI General Survey Results:

Benefits Survey

The Benefits Service Satisfaction Survey asked those who have used the benefits service about their experience including:

  • Getting in touch with the benefits office
  • Visiting the benefits office
  • Telephoning the benefits office
  • Benefits office staff
  • The claim forms
  • The experience overall

Benefits Survey Results:

Planning Survey

The Planning Application Satisfaction Survey asked individuals making a planning application during a specific period about their experience of using the planning service including:

  • Their experience of using the planning department
  • Whether they have used the service before
  • Whether the service has improved since they last used it
  • Overall satisfaction with the service provided

Planning Survey Results:

Related Links:

  • CLG- BVPI website - The Communities and Local Government (CLG) website allows you to carry out simple analysis online and you can see how Mid Beds District Council is performing compared  to other councils.
  • Audit Commission website - BVPI results for Mid Beds District Council and all other authorities in England can be accessed on this website.

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the 2006/07 BVPI Surveys please contact Mark Hustwitt, Communications Manager on 01462 611014 (office), 07967474285 (mobile), or  e-mail: mark.hustwitt@midbeds.gov.uk