“People are saying” is a recipe for disaster. Whenever I hear it, I immediately want to know two things:
- which people?
- are they really saying that?
Not everyone can be counted on to broach questions, concerns, and grievances directly. It’s easier to grumble among peers. I’ve done it so many times.
When you’re the person being grumbled about, then: don’t wait for the unfiltered grumble. Go get it. Make phone calls. Reach out. Start conversations. Share information. Don’t accuse (“I heard you said . . . “). Be generous and thorough and transparent.
Whatever you do, don’t take action on the grumble.
YoRocko! 
I had a supervisor at a summer job at an amusement park in the 70’s who would often work this phrase into the conversation: “Well, you know what they say.” Most people would respond with a simple “Yep”. But he never actually said who they were or what they said, even when pressed. He is now an FB friend and occasionally still makes this statement.