Community Life Survey 2020/21 - Identity and Social Networks
Analysis of questions from the Community Life Survey 2020/21 related to Identity and Social Networks
Applies to England
Documents
Details
Background
The Community Life Survey collects information about the way adults (16+) communicate with family members and friends, their support networks and the diversity of their friendship groups.
Headline measures - 2020/21
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66% of respondents (approximately 30 million people in England) met up in person with friends/family at least once a week, a statistically significant decrease from 2019/20 where the figure was 74% (33 million people).
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95% of respondents either definitely or tended to agree that if they needed help, there are people who would be there for them; a similar figure to 2019/20 (95%).
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There was a statistically significant increase in the proportion of people who spoke on the phone or video/audio call via the internet with family members or friends at least once a week from 81% in 2019/2020 to 85% in 2020/21.
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86% of respondents exchanged texts or instant messages with family or friends once a week or more. This is a statistically significant increase from 2019/20 (84%) and has been steadily rising since 2013/14 (76%).
Further data
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The social capital headline indicators produced by the Office for National Statistics present data covering subjects including personal relationships and social network supports.
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Understanding Society is a large longitudinal household panel study which collects data on subjects including social and family networks.
Published 29 July 2021