Wellbeing of Scots did not improve over past year, new report finds

The wellbeing of people in Scotland remains stagnant, as per a recent report from the charitable trust Carnegie UK. The research indicated that there was no improvement in the quality of life for the average person in Scotland between 2023 and 2024. Carnegie’s Life in the UK index evaluates wellbeing by examining responses to questions encompassing social, environmental, economic, and democratic aspects. The index, now in its second year, was based on surveys involving over 1100 participants each. Disappointingly, there were no significant enhancements observed across any key metrics for individuals in Scotland.

The report calls upon the governments in Edinburgh and London to collaboratively address issues of inequality and enhance the collective wellbeing of the Scottish populace. Sarah Davidson, the chief executive of Carnegie UK, highlighted concerns about the lack of fulfilment of basic needs among many in Scotland and the pervasive distrust towards politics and governance. The report emphasized the necessity for policymakers to prioritise factors that matter to individuals, such as job opportunities and community safety, while aligning decisions with information on wellbeing.

The research revealed that individuals with lower incomes, disabled persons, and those aged between 16 and 34 experienced particularly low levels of wellbeing. Additionally, findings indicated that a notable percentage of the Scottish public faced challenges, including feeling unsafe in their neighbourhood after dark, being unable to afford unexpected expenses, and struggling to maintain adequate warmth in their homes. Distrust in political systems and institutions was also prevalent, with a significant portion of respondents feeling disempowered in influencing decisions at both the UK and Scottish government levels.

Moreover, there were alarming levels of distrust towards various governmental bodies, with implications for political engagement and accountability. John Curtice, a polling expert from Strathclyde University, highlighted the pervasive lack of confidence in governance structures, underscoring the imperative for politicians to engender trust and demonstrate a genuine commitment to the public good. Responding to the report, a spokesperson for the Scottish Government affirmed their commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of all residents through initiatives promoting fair work and substantial investments in poverty alleviation and affordability support.

The report’s findings shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by individuals in Scotland, prompting calls for comprehensive measures to address systemic issues and enhance overall quality of life. As stakeholders navigate these complex concerns, prioritising the needs and perspectives of the populace emerges as a critical imperative to foster a more inclusive and sustainable societal framework.