Public First Study Finds Shared British Values Amid Division

A large-scale study by Public First found that British citizens share a core set of values centered on hard work, fair play, and community, regardless of age, social class, or political affiliation. The research, which included 6,000 adults and 300 focus groups, showed that 80% of respondents believe the country is at its best when neighbors support one another, while 70% associate hard work with British identity.

Despite this consensus, over 65% of respondents feel Britain is more divided than ever in the post-Brexit era, citing significant friction regarding immigration. The report highlighted a gap in optimism based on civic engagement, noting that 62% of recent volunteers feel positive about their local area's future, compared to only 25% of non-volunteers.

The findings suggest that affirmative messaging regarding shared values is more effective than rhetoric rooted in grievance. These results coincide with a national listening tour by politician Andy Burnham aimed at restoring hope across the United Kingdom.