Understanding Scotland is a quarterly survey published by the Diffley Partnership. It measures the most important aspects of the lives of those living in Scotland: the economy, environment and society. 

For each research wave the survey, designed by Diffley Partnership, generates over 2,000 responses from a clean sample of ScotPulse panel members.


The most recent wave was sent to recipients on the 2nd of August 2026. From voting habits to energy, policing to poverty and environmental attitudes, this wave reveals a snapshot of Scottish public opinion during the summer of 2026.


For the second consecutive wave this year, cost of living and inflation are identified as the most important issues facing Scotland in 2026.


View the full report.
Understanding Scotland Economy Tracker – August 2026
More of Scotland's opinions

See all survey findings
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