The latest survey conducted between 4th and 14th May 2023, sheds light on the important issues facing the United Kingdom, with citizens expressing their views on various topics. The survey, conducted by the Office for National Statistics, collected data from adults across the country, highlighting their concerns and experiences.
According to the survey, the most commonly reported issues facing the UK today are the cost of living, the NHS, the economy, and climate change and the environment. A staggering 91% of respondents identified the cost of living as a significant concern, followed by the NHS at 82%, the economy at 73%, and climate change and the environment at 59%.
The data also revealed that around two-thirds (67%) of adults reported an increase in their cost of living compared to a month ago. The rising cost of food shopping was the primary reason cited by 96% of respondents, followed by increases in gas or electricity bills at 74%, and fuel prices at 38%.
To cope with the rising cost of living, individuals have adopted various strategies. Approximately 66% of adults reported spending less on non-essential items, 49% mentioned shopping around more, and an equal percentage stated that they are using less fuel, such as gas or electricity, in their homes. Moreover, 44% of respondents reported spending less on food shopping and essentials.
The survey also delved into the public’s engagement with the coronation of King Charles III and Camilla, Her Majesty the Queen, which took place on 6th May 2023. The data revealed that around 59% of adults reported either watching or planning to watch the Coronation Service on TV. Interestingly, the proportion of viewers increased with age, with 39% of those aged 16 to 29 years, 56% of those aged 30 to 49 years, 62% of those aged 50 to 69 years, and a significant 82% of those aged 70 years or over expressing their intent to watch the ceremony.
The survey also addressed the accessibility of GP practices. Approximately half (49%) of adults reported attempting to contact a GP practice for themselves or someone else in the past month. Of those, 68% managed to make contact on the same day, while 8% made contact the day after, and 15% experienced a delay of two or more days. Unfortunately, 10% reported being unable to make contact with the GP practice at all. Furthermore, 40% of respondents found it easy or very easy to contact their GP practice, whereas 36% found it difficult or very difficult. Overall, 60% of individuals described their experience with the GP practice as very or fairly good, while 22% reported it as very or fairly poor.
The survey also included questions on personal well-being, revealing average levels of life satisfaction at 6.9, a feeling of worthwhile activities at 7.2, happiness at 7.0, and anxiety at 3.9. Additionally, 26% of respondents reported feeling lonely often, always, or some of the time.
The survey provides valuable insights into the concerns and experiences of UK citizens, emphasizing the significance of addressing the cost of living, improving access to healthcare services, and tackling key issues such as the economy and climate change. The findings highlight the importance of understanding and addressing the needs and well-being of the population to ensure a prosperous and inclusive society.