This edition of Understanding Scotland brings you insights from over 2,200 members of the adult (16+) Scottish public on the most important aspects of our society and economy.
This report is the first in the Understanding Scotland series since the UK General Election on July 4th, which ushered in a Labour government. Since then, the UK and its new government have seen significant challenges, including a wave of riots following the Southport attack, averted planned train strikes, and mounting fiscal concern around the upcoming budget. As Scotland grapples with these shocks, the findings presented here offer a timely snapshot of public sentiment, priorities, and challenges.
The report presents shifting perceptions of Scotland’s direction, reflecting both lingering concerns and emerging uncertainties. While there has been a decrease in the proportion of Scots who believe the country is headed in the wrong direction, over half continue to believe that Scotland is heading in the wrong direction, and a growing proportion are unsure about the country’s direction, suggesting a populace still searching for clarity in uncertain times.
Healthcare remains at the forefront of public concern, though the decline in emphasis on the cost of living signals a subtle shift in priorities. The increasing prominence of issues like immigration and crime indicates that Scots are becoming more concerned with a wider range of issues. Future reports in this series will closely monitor this broadening of focus, as it reflects not only changing public sentiment but also the potential for emerging issues to shape the social and political landscape.
Economically, while there is an easing of the deep pessimism that has characterised the past two years, the data reveals that many Scots remain cautious. The ongoing struggle with financial fragility, particularly among households with children, underscores the uneven distribution of economic resilience across the country.
As rising costs continue to shape the daily lives of Scots, the adjustments in food choices highlight the practical realities faced by many. The shift towards more affordable, yet often less nutritious options is a sobering reminder of the pressures that persist despite improving economic indicators.
