Public Trust in Government and Media Plummets, Survey Finds
A comprehensive survey conducted by Ipsos has revealed a significant erosion of public trust in government and national media. Only 25% of respondents over the age of 18 in England believe that government ministers act in the best interests of their local communities, while a mere 26% express similar trust in large media outlets.
The survey, commissioned by the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU), also found that 57% of respondents believe local councils have the greatest impact on the quality of life in their communities, compared to just 14% who attribute this influence to the Parliament at Westminster. While local councillors garner more trust than other politicians, they still fall behind police (55%), community groups (68%), and local businesses (61%) in this regard.
Trust in all public institutions to act in the interests of local residents has diminished, with 57% expressing little faith in local MPs and 53% in the civil service. This skepticism aligns with negative perceptions of local services. Nearly half (48%) of respondents reported a decline in local services over the past five years, a proportion that rises to three in five (61%) among individuals aged 55 to 75. Of those who perceive a decline in public services, over half place a significant degree of blame on the UK government (53%), while only a third hold local councils responsible.
Despite the low levels of trust, the survey also highlights the importance of local councils and community groups in improving services. Furthermore, 62% of respondents expressed a desire to learn more about local decision-making processes, indicating a potential appetite for greater civic engagement. However, only 10% expressed a desire to be actively involved in decision-making.
LGIU chief executive Jonathan Carr-West expressed concern over the lack of public trust in government and other institutions, emphasizing the corrosive impact it can have on civic life and regeneration efforts. He stressed the need for elected officials to prioritize restoring public trust, particularly at the local level.
Cameron Garrett, research manager at Ipsos, noted the widespread recognition of the significance of local government and the corresponding support for increased decision-making at the local level. However, he emphasized that outcomes remain crucial, with the public prioritizing the right decision being made and the involvement of decision-makers with expertise. The survey findings underscore the need for local governments to address public concerns about the quality of local services and to work towards rebuilding trust with their communities.
