A recent poll has shown a bleak outlook among Britons for 2025, with a majority believing the year will be worse than 2024, delivering a blow to Sir Keir Starmer’s efforts to uplift the nation’s mood. The survey, conducted by More in Common, reflects widespread pessimism about the country’s trajectory under both current and prospective leadership.
Poll Findings: A Nation in Gloom
The survey of over 2,400 people found that:
- 50% of Britons think 2025 will be worse than 2024, compared to just 23% who believe it will improve.
- 18% expect it to be “much worse,” while 27% predict little to no change.
- Labour supporters were more optimistic, with 48% expecting improvement, whereas 65% of Reform UK supporters and 64% of Conservatives anticipate a downturn.
This pessimism extends to key policy areas, with over two-thirds doubting Labour will deliver significant progress on reducing migrant crossings or NHS waiting lists in 2025.
Disillusionment with Leadership
Luke Tryl, executive director of More in Common, attributed the findings to a “pervasive sense of national gloom.” He noted that the public’s frustration with the current government is compounded by disappointment in Labour’s failure to fulfill its promise of change.
“We thought things would get better and they haven’t,” said Tryl, emphasizing that Britons are no longer convinced improvement is on the horizon. He highlighted the need for leaders to present a hopeful vision for the future instead of focusing solely on past failures.
Global Concerns Add to the Pessimism
The public’s gloomy outlook extends to global issues:
- 57% believe 2025 will bring record-high global temperatures.
- Half think AI will cause significant job losses worldwide.
- Over 36% fear conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East could escalate into global war.
Despite these concerns, there are some glimmers of optimism. A 42% majority believes the UK will secure a trade deal with the US, and by a 56% to 29% margin, the public expects Sir Keir Starmer to remain in office through 2025.
Public Confidence in Change Remains Low
While many Britons expect Labour to stay in power, 66% perceive the party as offering “more of the same” compared to previous Conservative leadership, with only 34% believing it represents genuine change.
As Britons brace for 2025, the mood highlights a critical challenge for Starmer’s government: delivering tangible improvements to restore public confidence and optimism.
Leave a Reply