Survey Research in England and Wales

Ofwat is commissioning a Contract for public opinion surveys. We expect the Contract to be used to deliver the following:

• Survey One on environment, including storm overflows (causing sewage in rivers)

There has been recent coverage on, and public concern about, the release of sewage into rivers by wastewater companies. This survey is to understand people's levels of awareness, concern, and trust in relation to the release of sewage into rivers. It should also cover wider environmental questions that relate to river quality - such as wet wipes and microplastics. The survey will be used to monitor changing views and preferences over time.

Timeframe:

We expect the first wave of this survey to be run and reported on between January-March 2022. We expect this survey will be repeated in 2022 and/or 2023.

• Survey Two on value for money / cost of living

Many customers are likely to face increased financial pressures over the next year. Costs of living are expected to rise - with rising energy bills, an increase to national insurance, and a rise in inflation.

Water bills are also expected to rise for many customers. We are looking to monitor perceptions of water company bills over time.

The research should include questions on awareness of current cost of water and other utility bills, whether water and utility bills are seen to offer value for money, understanding of what water bills include (and whether perceptions on value for money changes when information is provided on this), and trust in companies.

Timeframe:

We expect the first wave of this survey to be run and reported on between January-March 2022, and to be repeated in 2022 and/or 2023.

• Other surveys

We expect to use the Contract to commission other surveys of interest to Ofwat. Some of these surveys may be emerging issues that are specific to a particular location (for example, if there is particular flooding or water shortages in a particular part of England and Wales). We may also seek to commission surveys at fairly short notice.

Apply using MyTenders e-procurement portal. Suppliers invited from Crown Commercial Service DPS Agreement (RM6018) Framework.