Concerns Over Democracy Among UK's Young Adults Amid Rising Energy Prices
Recent surveys reveal significant apprehensions regarding democracy and financial pressures among the youth of the UK.
A recent survey indicates that a significant majority of young adults in the UK express concerns about the current state of democracy.
The UK Youth Poll, conducted by the University of Glasgow’s John Smith Centre, surveyed over 2,000 individuals aged 16 to 29. The results show that 63% of respondents believe democracy is 'in trouble,' with nearly three-quarters (72%) indicating that it has become 'too divided.' Despite these concerns, a majority still prefer democracy over dictatorship, with 57% supporting democratic governance compared to 27% who lean towards authoritarian rule.
The poll also addresses social issues, revealing that 67% of young adults feel social media should be restricted for those under 16, while the same proportion acknowledges the increasing prevalence of toxic masculinity.
Additionally, 73% view racism as a 'significant issue' within UK society, yet just over half (51%) feel that immigration has positively impacted communities.
Financial and employment challenges have emerged as the primary sources of anxiety for this demographic, with 37% citing financial worries, 23% reporting work-related stress, and 20% concerned about job security or unemployment.
In contrast to these economic apprehensions, 63% of respondents reported optimism regarding their personal futures, and 72% described themselves as 'either rather or very happy.'
Dr. Elisabeth Loose, leading the survey, pointed out that while young people are worried about the future of democracy, there is a strong desire for engagement and a more transparent political environment.
The survey highlights that more than a third (36%) wish to see politicians exhibit greater openness and honesty, while over a quarter (27%) call for more young individuals in leadership positions.
The issues most important to respondents include affordable housing, increased NHS investment, and lower taxes for low earners.
The survey underscores the diversity within the youth demographic, indicating that young people exhibit a range of political beliefs that challenge the notion of a unified generational perspective.
James Kanagasooriam from polling firm Focaldata noted that differences in class, education, gender, ethnicity, and regional background create varied political views among young adults.
In parallel, a separate survey has revealed that concerns regarding energy affordability are growing among the Scottish population.
A Survation poll, conducted for the charity Advice Direct Scotland, found that 46% of Scots are apprehensive about their ability to pay for energy bills over the next year.
This survey precedes the upcoming rise in the Ofgem price cap, which will increase from £1,738 to £1,849, representing a 6.4% hike and pushing average bills up by £111 annually.
This new cap concludes a 62% rise compared to energy prices in the autumn of 2021.
The charity Advice Direct Scotland has encouraged individuals struggling with energy-related debt to seek free and impartial advice.
Conor Forbes, the charity’s policy director, emphasized the financial strain many Scottish households are facing and the need for practical measures to address energy affordability issues.
Households have been advised to submit meter readings by the end of Monday and to explore potential better tariffs available from their energy suppliers.
The UK Youth Poll, conducted by the University of Glasgow’s John Smith Centre, surveyed over 2,000 individuals aged 16 to 29. The results show that 63% of respondents believe democracy is 'in trouble,' with nearly three-quarters (72%) indicating that it has become 'too divided.' Despite these concerns, a majority still prefer democracy over dictatorship, with 57% supporting democratic governance compared to 27% who lean towards authoritarian rule.
The poll also addresses social issues, revealing that 67% of young adults feel social media should be restricted for those under 16, while the same proportion acknowledges the increasing prevalence of toxic masculinity.
Additionally, 73% view racism as a 'significant issue' within UK society, yet just over half (51%) feel that immigration has positively impacted communities.
Financial and employment challenges have emerged as the primary sources of anxiety for this demographic, with 37% citing financial worries, 23% reporting work-related stress, and 20% concerned about job security or unemployment.
In contrast to these economic apprehensions, 63% of respondents reported optimism regarding their personal futures, and 72% described themselves as 'either rather or very happy.'
Dr. Elisabeth Loose, leading the survey, pointed out that while young people are worried about the future of democracy, there is a strong desire for engagement and a more transparent political environment.
The survey highlights that more than a third (36%) wish to see politicians exhibit greater openness and honesty, while over a quarter (27%) call for more young individuals in leadership positions.
The issues most important to respondents include affordable housing, increased NHS investment, and lower taxes for low earners.
The survey underscores the diversity within the youth demographic, indicating that young people exhibit a range of political beliefs that challenge the notion of a unified generational perspective.
James Kanagasooriam from polling firm Focaldata noted that differences in class, education, gender, ethnicity, and regional background create varied political views among young adults.
In parallel, a separate survey has revealed that concerns regarding energy affordability are growing among the Scottish population.
A Survation poll, conducted for the charity Advice Direct Scotland, found that 46% of Scots are apprehensive about their ability to pay for energy bills over the next year.
This survey precedes the upcoming rise in the Ofgem price cap, which will increase from £1,738 to £1,849, representing a 6.4% hike and pushing average bills up by £111 annually.
This new cap concludes a 62% rise compared to energy prices in the autumn of 2021.
The charity Advice Direct Scotland has encouraged individuals struggling with energy-related debt to seek free and impartial advice.
Conor Forbes, the charity’s policy director, emphasized the financial strain many Scottish households are facing and the need for practical measures to address energy affordability issues.
Households have been advised to submit meter readings by the end of Monday and to explore potential better tariffs available from their energy suppliers.
