Official Statistics

Community Life Survey 2024/25: Civic engagement and social action

Updated 10 December 2025

Applies to England

© Crown copyright 2025

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Civic Engagement and Social Action

1. Civic participation

Civic participation is defined in the Community Life Survey as engagement in democratic processes, both in person and online, including contacting a local official (such as a local councillor or MP), signing a petition, or attending a public rally (excludes voting).

The 2024/25 data tables provide estimates of the proportion of adults engaging in each of these types of participation in the last 12 months. This section summarises the findings for the proportion of adults engaging in any form of civic participation in the last 12 months.

1.1 Headline findings

In 2024/2025:

34% of adults engaged in some form of civic participation at least once in the last 12 months, no significant change from 2023/24 (33%). 

As shown in Figure 1.1, levels of civic participation in 2024/25 and 2023/24 were in line with levels in 2021/22 (34%), but lower than levels in 2019/20 (41%) and 2020/21 (42%).

Figure 1.1: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) taking part in some form of civic participation at least once in the last 12 months, England: 2013/14 to 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

1.2 Demographics: Who engaged in civic participation? [footnote 1]

Age

Compared with the average for adults in England (34%), adults aged 65 to 74 (39%), aged 35 to 49 (36%), and aged 50 to 64 (36%) were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months. Adults aged 75 and over (27%) and aged 16 to 24 (26%) were less likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months, compared with the average for adults in England (34%).

Disability Status

Disabled adults (38%) were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months than non-disabled adults (33%).

Sex[footnote 2]

Female adults (35%) were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months than male adults (33%).

Gender Identity[footnote 3]

Adults whose gender identity was different from their sex registered at birth (52%) were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months than adults whose gender identity was the same as their sex registered at birth (34%).

Sexual Orientation[footnote 4]

Bisexual adults (52%) and adults from the “other sexual orientation” classification (51%) were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months than gay or lesbian adults (44%) and heterosexual or straight adults (34%). Additionally, gay or lesbian adults (44%) were also more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months than heterosexual or straight adults (34%).

Religion

Compared with the average for adults in England (34%), Jewish adults (52%), adults from the Any other religion classification (49%), Buddhist adults (39%), and adults from the No religion classification (35%) were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months. Hindu adults (24%) were less likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months, compared with the average for adults in England (34%). 

Ethnicity

Compared with the average for adults in England (34%), adults from the White Gypsy or Irish Traveller (48%), White Irish (45%), Any other mixed or multiple ethnic background (41%), mixed White and Asian (38%), and White British[footnote 5] (35%) ethnic groups were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months. Adults from the Indian (27%), Black African (26%), Chinese (25%), and Any other Asian background (24%) ethnic groups were less likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months, compared with the average for adults in England (34%).

Socio-economic classification[footnote 6]

Adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations classification (42%) were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months than adults in the intermediate occupations (37%), routine and manual occupations (28%), and the never worked and long-term unemployed (28%) classifications. Additionally, adults in the intermediate occupations (37%) classification were also more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months than adults in the routine and manual occupations (28%) and the never worked and long-term unemployed (28%) classifications. 

Index of multiple deprivation[footnote 7]

Adults living in the least deprived areas (10th decile, 37%) were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months than adults living in the most deprived areas (1st decile, 28%).

Population density

Adults living in rural areas (37%) were more likely to engage in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months than adults living in urban areas (33%).

1.3 Geographical findings

Regional differences

Compared with the average for adults in England (34%), adults living in the ITL1 areas of London (37%), South East (35%), and South West (35%) were more likely to have engaged in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months. Adults living in the North West (32%), East Midlands (32%), West Midlands (31%), Yorkshire and The Humber (31%) and North East (30%) ITL1 areas were less likely to have engaged in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months, compared with the average for adults in England (34%), 

Local Authority differences[footnote 8]

By local authority, there was a 26 percentage point difference in the proportion of adults who engaged in civic participation at least once in the last 12 months, from 48% in Lewes to 21% in the City of London.

The proportion of adults engaging in civic participation was in line with the England average in 204 (69%) local authorities, higher than the England average in 49 (17%) local authorities, and lower than the England average in 43 (15%) local authorities, although some of these differences were small.

In general, the patterns of engagement in civic participation at the ITL1 level are also observed at the local authority (LA) level. However, there are a number of exceptions. The following notes the exceptions where levels in ITL1 areas are above or below the England average, but where levels in local authority areas show the reverse:

  • Levels of civic participation were higher than the England average for adults living in the London ITL1 area (37%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the London local authorities of City of London (21%), Barking and Dagenham (26%), Brent (27%), and Hounslow (28%).

  • Levels of civic participation were higher than the England average for adults living in the South East ITL1 area (35%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the South East local authorities of Crawley (28%), Gosport (28%), and Havant (28%) and Gravesham (29%).

  • Levels of civic participation were higher than the England average for adults living in the South West ITL1 area (35%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the South West local authority of Swindon (27%).

  • Levels of civic participation were lower than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands ITL1 area (32%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands local authorities of Rutland (43%), High Peak (41%), and Derbyshire Dales (40%).

  • Levels of civic participation were lower than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands ITL1 area (31%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands local authorities of Malvern Hills (39%) and Shropshire (39%).

  • Levels of civic participation were lower than the England average for adults living in the North West ITL1 area (32%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the North West local authority of Stockport (39%).

Figure 1.2: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who engaged in some form of civic participation at least once in the last 12 months, by ITL1 area and local authority, England: 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

2. Civic consultation

Civic consultation is defined in the survey as taking part in a consultation about local services or problems in the local area through completing a questionnaire, attending a public meeting or being involved in a face-to-face or online group. The 2024/25 data tables provide estimates of the proportion of adults engaging in each of these consultation activities in the last 12 months.  This section summarises the findings for the proportion of adults engaging in any form of civic consultation in the last 12 months.

2.1 Headline findings

In 2024/2025:

19% of adults engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months, no significant change from levels in 2023/24 (18%) and 2021/22 (18%). 

Figure 2.1: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) taking part in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months, England: 2013/14 to 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

2.2 Demographics: Who engaged in civic consultation? [footnote 1]

Age

Compared with the average for adults in England (19%), adults aged 35 to 49 (20%), aged 50 to 64 (21%) and aged 65 to 74 (22%) were more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months. In contrast, adults aged 16 to 24 (14%), aged 25 to 34 (16%) and aged 75 and over (17%) were less likely to take part in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months, compared with the average for adults in England (19%).

Disability Status

Disabled adults (20%) were more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months than non-disabled adults (19%).

Sex[footnote 2]

There were no significant differences observed in likelihood to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months between male and female adults.

Gender identity [footnote 3]

Adults whose gender identity was different from their sex registered at birth (25%) were more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months than adults whose gender identity was the same as their sex registered at birth (19%).

Sexual Orientation[footnote 4]

Adults from the “other sexual orientation” classification (31%) were more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months than bisexual adults (25%), gay or lesbian adults (24%) and heterosexual or straight adults (19%).  Additionally, bisexual adults (25%) and gay or lesbian adults (24%) were also more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months than heterosexual or straight adults (19%).

Religion

Compared with the average for adults in England (19%), Jewish adults (31%), Buddhist adults (27%), and adults from the Any other religion classification (27%) were more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months. Adults from the No religion classification (18%) were less likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months compared with the average for adults in England (19%).

Ethnicity

Compared with the average for adults in England (19%), adults from White Gypsy or Irish Traveller (33%), White Irish (27%), Any other mixed or multiple ethnic background (23%), mixed White and Asian (22%), Any other ethnic group (22%), Black African (21%), and Any other White background (21%) ethnic groups were more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months. Adults from Chinese (16%) and Any other Asian background (15%) ethnic groups were less likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months compared with the average for adults in England (19%).

Socio-economic classification[footnote 6]

Adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations (24%), intermediate occupations (19%), and never worked and long-term unemployed (18%) classifications were more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months than adults from the routine and manual occupations classification (14%). Additionally, adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations (24%) classification were also more likely to have engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months than adults from the intermediate occupations (19%) or never worked and long-term unemployed (18%) classifications.

Index of multiple deprivation[footnote 7]

Adults living in the least deprived areas (10th decile, 21%) were more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months compared with adults living in the most deprived areas (1st decile, 15%).

Population density

Adults living in rural areas (22%) were more likely to have engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months than adults living in urban areas (18%).

2.3 Geographical findings

Regional differences

Compared with the average for adults living in England (19%), adults living in the ITL1 areas of London (22%), the South East (20%), and the South West (20%) were more likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months. Adults living in the North East (15%), North West (16%), West Midlands (16%), East Midlands (17%), and Yorkshire and The Humber (17%) ITL1 areas were less likely to engage in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months compared with the average for adults living in England (19%). 

Local Authority differences[footnote 8]

By local authority, there was a 36 percentage point difference in the proportion of adults who engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months, from 45% in Isles of Scilly to 9% in Ipswich. Note that if Isles of Scilly is excluded, the range is reduced to 24 percentage points (from 33% in Cambridge to 9% in Ipswich).

The proportion of adults engaging in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months was higher than the England average in 54 (18%) local authorities, lower than the England average in 48 (16%) local authorities, and in line with the England average in 194 (66%) local authorities.

In general, the patterns of engagement in civic consultation at the ITL1 level were also observed at the local authority (LA) level. However, there were a number of exceptions. The following notes the exceptions where levels in ITL1 areas are above or below the England average, but where levels in local authority areas show the reverse:

  • The proportion of adults who have engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months was higher than the England average for adults living in the South East ITL1 area (20%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the South East local authorities of Bracknell Forest (12%), Gosport (12%) and Worthing (12%).

  • The proportion of adults who have engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months was higher than the England average for adults living in the South West ITL1 area (20%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the South West local authorities of Gloucester (13%) and Swindon (14%).

  • The proportion of adults who have engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months was higher than the England average for adults living in the London ITL1 area (22%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the London local authority of Hillingdon (14%).

  • The proportion of adults who have engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months was lower than the England average for adults living in the Yorkshire and The Humber ITL1 area (17%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the Yorkshire and The Humber local authority of York (22%).

  • The proportion of adults who have engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months was lower than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands ITL1 area (16%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands local authority of Shropshire (23%).

  • The proportion of adults who have engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months was lower than the England average for adults living in the North West ITL1 area (16%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the North West local authority of Rossendale (23%).

  • The proportion of adults who have engaged in civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months was lower than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands ITL1 area (17%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands local authorities of Derbyshire Dales (28%), Rutland (28%), High Peak (23%), and North West Leicestershire (23%).

Figure 2.2: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who engaged in some form of civic consultation at least once in the last 12 months, by ITL1 area and Local Authority, England: 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

3. Civic activism

Civic activism is defined in the survey as involvement in local community roles such as being a local councillor, school governor, volunteer special constable or magistrate (for those aged 18 or over). Civic activism also includes involvement, either in person or online, in decision making groups in the local area. Examples of this are a tenants’ association, groups making decisions about local health or education services, or groups set up to either regenerate a local area or address issues such as crime.

The 2024/25 data tables provide estimates on the proportion of adults engaging in each of these types of activity in the last 12 months.  This section summarises the findings for the proportion of adults engaging in any form of civic activism at least once in the last 12 months.

3.1 Headline findings

In 2024/2025:

8% of adults had engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months in 2024/25. This result has not significantly changed from levels of engagement in civic activism since 2016/17 (7% to 8%) 

Figure 3.1: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months, England: 2013/14 to 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

3.2 Demographics: Who engaged in civic activism? [footnote 1]

Age

Compared with the average for adults in England (8%), adults aged 65 to 74 (10%) were more likely to engage in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months. Adults aged 25 to 34 (6%) were less likely to engage in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months compared with the average for adults in England (8%). 

Disability Status

There were no significant differences observed in levels of engagement in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months between disabled and non-disabled adults.

Sex[footnote 2]

Male adults (8.1%) were more likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months than female adults (7.6%) although this difference is small.

Gender identity [footnote 3]

There were no significant differences observed in levels of engagement in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months between adults whose gender identity was the same as their sex registered at birth and adults whose gender identity was different from their sex registered at birth.

Sexual Orientation[footnote 4]

Adults from the “other sexual orientation” classification (21%) were more likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months than bisexual adults (11%), gay or lesbian adults (10%) and heterosexual or straight adults (8%). Additionally, bisexual adults (11%) and gay or lesbian adults (10%) were more likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months than heterosexual or straight adults (8%).

Religion

Compared with the average for adults in England (8%), Buddhist (18%), Jewish (17%), Sikh (13%), Muslim (13%), adults from the Any other religion classification (12%), and Christian (8%) adults were more likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months. Adults from the No religion classification (6%) were less likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months compared with the average for adults in England (8%).

Ethnicity[footnote 9]

Compared with average for adults in England (8%), adults from White Gypsy or Irish Traveller (34%), Arab (19%), mixed White and Black African (17%), White Irish (14%), Bangladeshi (13%), Pakistani (12%), African (12%), Black Caribbean (12%), Indian (11%), mixed White and Black Caribbean (11%), and mixed White and Asian (10%) ethnic groups were more likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months. Adults from the Any other Asian background (6%), Any other White background (6%) and White British[footnote 5] (7%) ethnic groups were less likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months compared with the average for adults in England (8%). 

Socio-economic classification[footnote 6]

Adults from the never worked and long-term unemployed (11%), higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations (10%) and intermediate occupations (7%)  classifications were more likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months than adults from the routine and manual occupations classification (4%). Additionally, adults from the never worked and long-term unemployed (11%) and adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations (10%)  classifications were more likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months than adults from the intermediate occupations classification (7%).

Index of multiple deprivation[footnote 7]

Adults living in the least deprived areas (10th decile, 8%) were more likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months compared with adults living in the most deprived areas (1st decile, 7%), although this difference is small.

Population density

Adults living in rural areas (10%) were more likely to have engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months than adults living in urban areas (7%).

3.3 Geographical findings

Regional differences

Compared with the average for adults in England (8%), the proportion of adults who engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months was higher in the ITL1 area of London (10%) and lower among adults living in the North East (6%), West Midlands (7%) and East Midlands (7%) ITL1 areas..

Local Authority differences[footnote 8]

By local authority, there was a 16 percentage point difference in the proportion of adults who engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months, from 19% in Isles of Scilly to 3% in Ashfield.

The proportion of adults who engaged in civic activism in the last 12 months was higher than the England average in 26 (9%) local authorities, lower than the England average in 26 (9%) local authorities, and in line with the England average in 244 (83%) local authorities.

In general, the patterns of engagement by adults in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months at the ITL1 level are also observed at the local authority (LA) level. However, there are a number of exceptions. The following notes the exceptions where levels in ITL1 areas are above or below average, but where levels in local authority areas show the reverse:

  • Levels of engagement by adults in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months were higher than the England average for adults living in the London ITL1 area (10%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the London local authority of Sutton (5%).

  • Levels of engagement by adults in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months were lower than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands ITL1 area (7%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands local authorities of Rutland (12%) and Derbyshire Dales (11%) and High Peak (11%).

Figure 3.2: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who engaged in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months, by ITL1 area and Local Authority, England: 2024/25 (Base: All adults)  

4. Civic engagement

Civic engagement is involvement in any civic participation, consultation, or activism at least once in the last 12 months, as defined in the earlier sections of this chapter.  This section covers participation in any of these civic activities at least once in the last 12 months.

4.1 Headline findings

In 2024/2025:

41% of adults had engaged in either civic participation, civic consultation, or civic activism at least once in the last 12 months in 2024/25. This is no significant change from levels observed in 2023/24 (41%). 

As shown in Figure 4.1, the highest rates of civic engagement were reported in 2020/21 (48%) and have varied between 48% and 41% since 2018/19 when this derived measure was first reported in the survey publications. 

Figure 4.1: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who took part in civic participation, consultation or activism at least once in the last 12 months, England: 2018/19 to 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

4.2 Demographics: Who engaged in any civic activities? [footnote 1]

Age

Compared with the average for adults in England (41%), adults aged 35 to 49 (44%), aged 50 to 64 ( 44%) and aged 65 to 74 (46%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months. Adults aged 16 to 24 (33%), aged 75 and over (35%) and aged 25 to 34 (40%) were less likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months compared to the average for adults in England (41%).

Disability Status

Disabled adults (45%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months than non-disabled adults (41%).

Sex[footnote 2]

Female adults (42%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months than male adults (40%).

Gender identity [footnote 3]

Adults whose gender identity was different from their sex registered at birth (57%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months compared to adults whose gender identity was the same as their sex registered at birth (41%).

Sexual Orientation[footnote 4]

Adults from the “other sexual orientation” classification (59%) and bisexual adults (58%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months than gay or lesbian adults (51%) and heterosexual or straight adults (42%). Additionally, gay or lesbian adults (51%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months than heterosexual or straight adults (42%).

Religion

Compared with the average for adults in England (41%), Jewish adults (59%), adults from the Any other religion classification (58%), and Buddhist adults (49%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months. Hindu adults (33%) were less likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months, compared with the average for adults in England (41%).

Ethnicity

Compared with the average for adults in England (41%), adults from White Irish (52%), White Gypsy or Irish Traveller (52%), Any other mixed or multiple ethnic background (48%), mixed White and Asian (46%), Any other ethnic group (46%), and White British[footnote 5] (42%) ethnic groups were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months. Adults from the Any other Asian background (32%), Chinese (33%), Indian (35%) and Black African (37%) ethnic groups were less likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months compared with the average for adults in England (41%). 

Socio-economic classification[footnote 6]

Adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations classification (51%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months than adults from the intermediate occupations (43%),  never worked and long-term unemployed (35%) and routine and manual occupations (34%) classifications. Additionally, adults from the intermediate occupations classification (43%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months than adults from the never worked and long-term unemployed (35%) and the routine and manual occupations (34%) classifications.

Index of multiple deprivation[footnote 7]

Adults living in the least deprived areas (10th decile, 45%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months than adults living in the most deprived areas (1st decile, 34%).

Population density

Adults living in rural areas (44%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months than adults living in urban areas (40%).

4.3 Geographical findings

Regional differences

Compared to the average for adults living in England (41%), adults living in the ITL1 areas of London (45%), the South East (43%) and the South West (43%) were more likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months. Adults living in the North East (37%), West Midlands (37%), East Midlands (38%), Yorkshire and The Humber (38%), and North West (39%) ITL1 areas were less likely to have engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months compared with the average for adults in England (41%). 

Local Authority differences[footnote 8]

By local authority there was a 32 percentage point difference in the proportion of adults who engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months, from 58% in Isles of Scilly to 26% in City of London.

The proportion of adults who engaged in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months was in line with the England average in 198 (67%) local authorities, lower than the England average in 50 (17%) local authorities, and higher in 48 (16%) local authorities.

In general, the patterns of engagement in civic activism at least once in the last 12 months at the ITL1 level are also observed at the local authority (LA) level. However, there are a number of exceptions. The following notes the exceptions where levels in ITL1 areas are above or below the England average, but where levels in local authority areas show the reverse:

  • Levels of engagement in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months were lower than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands ITL1 area (37%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands local authority of Shropshire (46%).

  • Levels of engagement in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months were lower than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands ITL1 area (38%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands local authorities of Rutland (51%), Derbyshire Dales (48%), and High Peak (47%).

  • Levels of engagement in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months were higher than the England average for adults living in the London ITL1 area (45%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the London local authorities of City of London (26%) and Barking and Dagenham (35%).

  • Levels of engagement in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months were higher than the England average for adults living in the South East ITL1 area (43%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the South East local authorities of Gosport (34%) and Havant (35%).

  • Levels of engagement in any civic activities at least once in the last 12 months were higher than the England average for adults living in the South West ITL1 area (43%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the South West local authorities of Gloucester (35%) and Swindon (35%).

Figure 4.2: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who took part in any civic participation, consultation, or activism at least once in the last 12 months, by ITL1 area and local authority, England: 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

5. Influencing local decisions

5.1 Headline findings

In 2024/25:

24% of adults agreed (either “definitely” or “tended” to agree) that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area. There is no significant change from levels observed in 2023/24 (23%). 

As seen in Figure 5.1, between 2013/14 and 2021/22 (25% to 28%), the proportion of adults who agreed that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area had been consistently higher than it is currently (24%).

Figure 5.1: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who agreed that they personally can influence decisions affecting their local area, England: 2013/14 to 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

5.2 Who agreed that they could personally influence decisions affecting their local area?

Age

Compared with the average for adults in England (24%), adults aged 35 to 49 (26%) were more likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area. Adults aged 75 and over (22%) were less likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area, compared to the average for adults in England (24%).  

Disability Status

Non-disabled adults (25%) were more likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area than disabled adults (21%).

Sex[footnote 2]

Male adults (25%) were more likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area than female adults (23%).

Gender identity [footnote 3]

There were no significant differences observed in the proportion of adults that agreed that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area between adults whose gender identity was the same as their sex registered at birth and those whose gender identity was different from their sex registered at birth .

Sexual Orientation[footnote 4]

There were no significant differences observed in the proportion of adults that agreed that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area across people from different sexual orientation classifications.

Religion

Compared to the average for adults in England (24%), Muslim (38%), Hindu (36%), Sikh (33%), Buddhist (32%) and Christian (24%) adults were more likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area. Adults from the No religion classification (20%) were less likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area than the average for adults in England (24%). 

Ethnicity

Compared with the average for adults in England (24%), adults from Black African (41%), Bangladeshi (39%), Arab (39%), Pakistani (38%), Indian (35%), Any other Asian background (33%), Black Caribbean (32%), mixed White and Black African (32%), Any other ethnic group (30%), Any other White background (28%) and Chinese (27%) ethnic groups were more likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area. Adults from the White British[footnote 5] (21%) ethnic group were less likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area, compared with the average for adults in England (24%).

Socio-economic classification[footnote 6]

Adults from the never worked and long-term unemployed classification (28%) were more likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area than adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations (25%), intermediate occupations (20%) and routine and manual occupations (20%) classifications. Additionally, adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations classification (25%) were more likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area than adults from the intermediate occupations (20%) and the routine and manual occupations (20%) classifications.

Index of multiple deprivation[footnote 7]

There were no significant differences observed in the proportion of adults that agreed that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area between adults living in the most deprived areas (1st decile, 25%) and those living in the least deprived areas (10th decile, 23%).

Population density

Adults living in rural areas (25%) were more likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area than adults living in urban areas (24%).

5.3 Geographical findings

Regional differences

Compared with the average for adults in England (24%), adults living in the ITL1 area of London (28%) were more likely to agree they personally can influence decisions affecting their local area. Adults living in the East of England (23%), South East (23%) and North East (21%) ITL1 areas were less likely to agree that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area, compared with the average for adults in England (24%). 

Local Authority differences[footnote 8]

By local authority, there was a 21 percentage point difference in the proportion of adults who agreed that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area, from 36% in Isles of Scilly to 15% in Hartlepool.

The proportion of adults who agreed that they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area was in line with the England average in 233 (79%) local authorities, higher than the England average in 28 (9%) local authorities, and lower in 35 (12%) local authorities.

In general, the proportions of adults that agreed they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area at the ITL1 level are also observed at the local authority (LA) level. However, there are a number of exceptions. The following notes the exceptions where levels in ITL1 areas are above or below the England average, but where levels in local authority areas show the reverse:

  • The proportion of adults that agreed they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area were lower than the England average for adults living in the East of England ITL1 area (23%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the East of England local authorities of Luton (32%) and Welwyn Hatfield (29%).

  • The proportion of adults that agreed they can personally influence decisions affecting their local area were lower than the England average for adults living in the South East ITL1 area (23%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the South East local authority of Slough (29%).

Figure 5.2: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who agreed they personally can influence decisions affecting their local area, by ITL1 area and local authority, England: 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

6. Importance of being able to influence local decisions

Respondents were also asked how important they personally felt it was to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area.

6.1 Headline findings

In 2024/25:

50% of adults reported that it was “very important” or “quite important” to personally be able to influence decisions affecting their local area. 

This is a small, but significant increase from 2023/24 (49.6% in 2023/24; 50.4% in 2024/25) and is the first time this sentiment has increased since 2019/20. Prior to this, it was consistent between 2014/15 and 2019/20 (57% to 58%).

Figure 6.1: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who reported that it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area, England: 2013/14 to 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

6.2 Demographics: Who felt it was important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area? [footnote 1]

Age

Compared with the average for adults in England (50%), adults aged 35 to 49 (54%), aged 50 to 64 (56%) and aged 65 to 74 (57%) were more likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area. Adults aged 16 to 24 (38%), aged 75 and over (46%) and aged 25 to 34 (46%) were less likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area, compared with the average for adults in England (50%).

Disability Status

There were no significant differences observed in the proportion of adults reporting that they felt it is important being able to influence decisions affecting their local area between disabled and non-disabled adults.

Sex[footnote 2]

There were no significant differences observed in the proportion of adults reporting that they felt it is important being able to influence decisions affecting their local area between female and male adults.

Gender identity [footnote 3]

There were no significant differences observed in the proportion of adults reporting that they felt it is important being able to influence decisions affecting their local area between adults whose gender identity is the same as their sex registered at birth and adults whose gender identity is different from their sex registered at birth.

Sexual Orientation[footnote 4]

Gay or lesbian adults (55%) were more likely than heterosexual or straight adults (51%), bisexual adults (51%) and adults from the “other sexual orientation” classification (49%) to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area.

Religion

Compared to the average for adults in England (50%), adults from the Any other religion classification (60%), Buddhist (58%), Hindu (56%), Muslim (54%), and Christian (54%) adults were more likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area. Adults from the No religion classification (47%) were less likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area compared to the average for adults in England (50%).

Ethnicity

Compared with the average for adults in England (50%), adults from the Black African (60%), Any other mixed or multiple ethnic background (57%), White Irish (56%), Indian (54%), Pakistani (54%), and Any other White background (53%) ethnic groups were more likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area. Adults from the White Gypsy or Irish Traveller (35%), Chinese (39%), mixed White and Black Caribbean (46%) and White British[footnote 5] (50%) ethnic groups were less likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area compared with the average for adults in England (50%).

Socio-economic classification[footnote 6]

Adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations classification (58%) were more likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area than adults from the intermediate occupations (52%), routine and manual occupations (44%) and never worked and long-term unemployed (44%) classifications. Additionally, adults from the intermediate occupations classification (52%) were more likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area than adults from the routine and manual occupations (44%) and never worked and long-term unemployed (44%) classifications.

Index of multiple deprivation[footnote 7]

Adults living in the least deprived areas (10th decile, 55%) were more likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area than those living in the most deprived areas (1st decile, 44%).

Population density

Adults living in rural areas (54%) were more likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area than those living in urban areas (50%).

6.3 Geographical findings

Regional differences

Compared with the average for adults in England (50%), adults living in the ITL1 areas of London (55%), the South East (52%) and the South West (52%) were more likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area. Adults living in the East Midlands (47%), Yorkshire and The Humber (47%), North West (48%), West Midlands (48%), and North East (46%) ITL1 areas were less likely to feel it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area, compared to the average for adults in England (50%).

Local Authority differences[footnote 8]

By local authority, there was a 32 percentage point difference in the proportion of adults who feel it is important to be able to personally influence decisions affecting their local area, from 65% in Isles of Scilly to 33% in City of London.

The proportion of adults who feel it is important to be able to personally influence decisions affecting their local area was in line with the England average in 208 (70%) local authorities, higher than the England average in 48 (16%) local authorities, and lower in 40 (14%) local authorities.

In general, the patterns in the proportions of adults who feel it is important to be able to personally influence decisions affecting their local area at the ITL1 level are also observed at the local authority (LA) level. However, there are a number of exceptions. The following notes the exceptions where levels in ITL1 areas are above or below the England average, but where levels in local authority areas show the reverse:

  • The proportion of adults who feel that it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area was higher than the England average for adults living in the London ITL1 area (55%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the London local authority of City of London (33%).

  • The proportion of adults who feel that it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area was higher than the England average for adults living in the South West ITL1 area (52%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the South West local authorities of Plymouth (42%) and Gloucester (43%).

  • The proportion of adults who feel that it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area was lower than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands ITL1 area (48%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands local authorities of Stratford-on-Avon (61%) and Warwick (58%).

  • The proportion of adults who feel that it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area was lower than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands ITL1 area (47%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands local authority of Rutland (58%).

  • The proportion of adults who feel that it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area was lower than the England average for adults living in the North West ITL1 area (48%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the North West local authority of Bury (57%).

Figure 6.2: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who feel that it is important to be able to influence decisions affecting their local area, by ITL1 area and local authority, England: 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

7. Level of involvement in local decisions

Respondents were asked whether they would like to be more involved in decisions made by their council that affect their local area.[footnote 10]

7.1 Headline findings

In 2024/25: 

28% of adults said that they would like to be more involved in decisions made by their council that affect the local area, a small, but significant, increase from 2023/24 (from 27.6% to 28.3%). 19% said no, and 53% said it depends on the issue. 

Data prior to 2021/22 on this measure is not comparable due to a change in the way the question was presented in the survey.[footnote 11]

7.2 Demographics: Who wanted more involvement in decisions affecting their local area? [footnote 1]

Age

Compared with the average for adults in England (28%), adults aged 25 to 34 (31%) and aged 35 to 49 (35%) were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area.Adults aged 75 and over (20%), aged 16 to 24 (21%), and aged 65 to 74 (26%) were less likely to want more involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area, compared to the average for adults in England (28%)

Disability Status

Disabled adults (30%) were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area than non-disabled adults (29%).

Sex[footnote 2]

Male adults (30%) were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area than female adults (27%).

Gender identity [footnote 3]

Adults whose gender identity was different from their sex registered at birth (36%) were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area than those whose gender identity was the same as their sex registered at birth (28%).

Sexual Orientation[footnote 4]

Bisexual adults (36%), gay or lesbian adults (36%) and adults from the “other sexual orientation” classification (32%) were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area than heterosexual or straight adults (28%).

Religion

Compared with the average for adults in England (28%), adults from the any other religion classification (37%), Buddhist (35%), Jewish (34%), Muslim (34%), Sikh (33%), Hindu (32%) and Christian (29%) adults were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area. Adults from the No religion classification (27%) were less likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area than the average for adults in England (28%).

Ethnicity

Compared with the average for adults in England (28%), adults from the Black African (39%), White Irish (37%), Pakistani (36%), Any other mixed or multiple ethnic background (35%), Any other White background (35%), Indian (33%), Any other ethnic group (33%) and Bangladeshi (32%) ethnic groups were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area. Adults from the Chinese (25%) and White British[footnote 5] (27%) ethnic groups were less likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area, compared with the average for adults in England (28%).

Socio-economic classification[footnote 6]

The proportions of adults who would like more involvement in decisions made by their council that affect their local area were significantly different between adults from each socio-economic classification.  Adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations classification (34%) were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area. This was followed by adults from the intermediate occupations classification (26%), then by adults from the routine and manual occupations classification (24%), and finally by adults from the never worked and long-term unemployed classification (22%). 

Index of multiple deprivation[footnote 7]

No significant differences were observed between the most deprived areas (1st decile) and least deprived areas (10th decile) in terms of appetite to be involved in decisions made by their council that affect the local area.

Population density

Adults living in urban areas (29%) were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area than those living in rural areas (26%).

7.3 Geographical findings

Regional differences

Compared with the overall average for adults in England (28%), adults in the ITL1 area of London(33%) were more likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area, while adults in the East Midlands (26%), East of England (27%), South West (27%), West Midlands (27%) and Yorkshire and The Humber (27%) ITL1 areas were less likely to want greater involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area.

Local Authority differences[footnote 8]

By local authority, there was a 22 percentage point difference in the proportion of adults who would like more involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area, from 39% in Brighton and Hove to 17% in City of London.

The proportion of adults who would like more involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area was higher than the England average in 22 (7%) local authorities, lower than the England average in 29 (10%) local authorities, and in line with the England average in 245 (83%) local authorities.

In general, the patterns in the proportions of adults who would like more involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area at the ITL1 level are also observed at the local authority (LA) level. However, there is one exception. The following notes the exceptions where levels in ITL1 areas are above or below the England average, but where levels in local authority areas show the reverse:

  • The proportion of adults who would like more involvement in decisions made by their council that affect the local area  was higher than the England average for adults living in London ITL1 area (33%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the London local authority of City of London (17%).

Figure 7.1: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) that would like to be more involved in council decisions, by ITL1 area and local authority, England: 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

8. Enabling decision making

8.1 Ways to influence decisions affecting the local area [footnote 12]

Respondents were presented with a potential list of ways in which they could influence decisions in their local area and were asked to select as many as applied to them. The most-commonly selected options (see Figure 8.1) were ‘sign an online petition’ (47%), ‘contact the local council/council official’ (45%), ‘contact my local councillor’ (43%), and ‘contact my MP’ (40%). ‘Contact my MP’ has increased since 2023/24 (38% to 40%) as has ‘Attend a local council meeting (19% to 20%). All others remain unchanged.

Figure 8.1: ‘If you wanted to influence decisions in your local area how would you go about it?’, England: 2024/25 (Base: Adults in subsample of approximately a third of online respondents) 

8.2 What would make it easier to influence decisions affecting the local area?[footnote 12]

Respondents were then asked what would make it easier for them to influence decisions affecting their local area. In 2024/25 the most popular responses (see Figure 8.2) were ‘if I knew what issues were being considered’ (44%), ‘if I could give my opinion online/by email’ (37%), ‘if the council got in touch with me and asked me’ (30%), and ‘if I had more time’ (30%). The order and percentages of most responses remains unchanged from 2023/24, but ‘if I knew who my local councillor was’ has had a small but significant decrease since last year (16% in 2023/24 to 15% in 2024/25).

Figure 8.2: ‘What would make it easier to influence decisions in the local area?’, England: 2024/25 (Base: Adults in subsample of approximately a third of online respondents) 

9. Wider social action activities

The UK government considers social action to include all volunteering, civic engagement and charitable giving.  Findings on formal and informal volunteering, civic engagement and charitable giving are presented in this chapter and in the chapter on Volunteering and Charitable Giving.  In addition to these the Community Life Survey also asks about involvement with issues affecting the local area, as part of wider social action activities, such as:   

  1. Setting up a new service/amenity

  2. Stopping the closure of a service/amenity

  3. Stopping something happening in the local area

  4. Running a local service on a voluntary basis

  5. Helping to organise a street party or community event

This section outlines findings in relation to participation in these wider social action activities. [footnote 13]

9.1 Headline findings

13% of adults in 2024/25 reported being involved in wider social action activities at least once in the last 12 months, no significant change from 2023/24.  

As shown in Figure 9.1, prior to 2023/24 rates of social action had generally been decreasing, from a high of 19% in 2013/14 when push-to-web data collection commenced on the Community Life Survey, to a low of 12% in 2021/22.  Rates in 2023/24 and 2024/25 were lower than for all other survey years (14-19%), with the exception of rates in 2021/22 (12%). 

Figure 9.1: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who reported being involved in wider social action activities at least once in the last 12 months, England: 2013/14 to 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

9.2 Demographics: Who was involved in wider social action activities? [footnote 1]

Age

Compared with the average for adults in England (13%), older adults aged 65 to 74 (17%) and aged 75 and over (15%) were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months. Adults aged 16 to 24 (12%) and aged 25 to 34 (10%) were less likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months compared to the average for adults in England (13%).

Disability Status

Disabled adults (14%) were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than non-disabled adults (13%).

Sex[footnote 2]

Male adults (14%) were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than female adults (13%).

Gender identity [footnote 3]

There were no significant differences observed in reported levels of social action at least once in the last 12 months between adults whose gender identity was the same as their sex registered at birth and adults whose gender identity was different from their sex registered at birth.

Sexual Orientation[footnote 4]

Adults from the “other sexual orientation” classification (27%) were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than bisexual (17%), gay or lesbian (15%) and heterosexual or straight adults (13%). Additionally, bisexual adults (17%) and gay or lesbian adults (15%) were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than heterosexual or straight adults (13%).

Religion

Compared with the average for adults in England (13%), Jewish (27%), Buddhist (22%) and Hindu (18%) adults, adults from the Any other religion classification (17%), Muslim (15%), and Christian (14%) adults and were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months. Adults from the No religion classification (12%) were less likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than the average for adults in England (13%).

Ethnicity

Compared with the average for adults in England (13%), adults from the White Gypsy or Irish Traveller (43%), mixed White and Black African (23%), White Irish (21%), Arab (21%), Bangladeshi (17%), mixed White and Asian (16%) and Indian (15%) ethnic groups were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months. Adults from the Any other Asian background ethnic group (9%) were less likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than the average for adults in England (13%).

Socio-economic classification[footnote 6]

Adults from the higher managerial, administrative and professional occupations classification (17%) were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than adults from the never worked and long-term unemployed (14%), intermediate occupations (13%), and routine and manual occupations (8%) classifications. Additionally, adults from the never worked and long-term unemployed (14%) and adults from the intermediate occupations (13%) classifications were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than adults from the routine and manual occupations classifications (8%).

Index of multiple deprivation[footnote 7]

Adults living in the least deprived areas (10th decile, 16%) were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than adults living in the most deprived areas (1st decile, 10%).

Population density

Adults living in rural areas (18%) were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months than those living in urban areas (12%).

9.3 Geographical findings

Regional differences

Compared with the average for adults in England (13%), adults living in the ITL1 areas of London (16%), the South East (14%) and the South West (14%) were more likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months, while adults living in the North East (10%), West Midlands (12%), East Midlands (12%), North West (12%) and Yorkshire and The Humber (12%) ITL1 areas were less likely to have been involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months.

Local Authority differences[footnote 8]

By local authority, there was a 20 percentage point difference in the proportion of adults who were involved in social action at least once in the last 12 months, from 26% in Isles of Scilly to 6% in Gosport.

The proportion of adults who were involved in social action was higher than the England average in 48 (16%) local authorities, lower than the England average in 49 (17%) local authorities, and in line with the England average in 199 (67%) local authorities.

In general, patterns in the levels of involvement in social action at least once in the last 12 months at the ITL1 level are also observed at the local authority (LA) level. However, there are a number of exceptions. The following notes the exceptions where levels in ITL1 areas are above or below the England average, but where levels in local authority areas show the reverse:

  • Levels of involvement in social action at least once in the last 12 months were higher than the England average for adults living in the South East ITL1 area (14%), but lower than the England average for adults living in ten South East local authorities: Gosport (6%), Rushmoor (8%), Southampton (8%), Worthing (8%), Adur (9%), Bracknell Forest (9%), Fareham (9%), Havant (9%), Medway (9%), and Crawley (10%).

  • Levels of involvement in social action at least once in the last 12 months were higher than the England average for adults living in the South West ITL1 area (14%), but lower than the England average for adults living in the South West local authorities of Swindon (9%) and Plymouth (10%).

  • Levels of involvement in social action at least once in the last 12 months were lower than the England average for adults living in the North West ITL1 area (12%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the North West local authority of Westmorland and Furness (16%).

  • Levels of involvement in social action at least once in the last 12 months were lower than the England average for adults living in the Yorkshire and The Humber ITL1 area (12%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the Yorkshire and The Humber local authority of North Yorkshire (15%).

  • Levels of involvement in social action at least once in the last 12 months were lower than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands ITL1 area (12%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the West Midlands local authorities of Shropshire (19%) and Stratford-on-Avon (18%).

  • Levels of involvement in social action at least once in the last 12 months were lower than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands ITL1 area (12%), but higher than the England average for adults living in the East Midlands local authorities of Rutland (22%), High Peak (21%), and Derbyshire Dales (20%).

Figure 9.2: Percentage of adults (aged 16+) who reported being involved in wider social action activities at least once in the last 12 months, by ITL1 area and local authority, England: 2024/25 (Base: All adults)

  1. Demographic questions in the survey are voluntary and self-reported by the respondent. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7

  2. This data is based on the respondent’s sex. The Community Life Survey respondents were asked the question “What is your sex?”. The response options were ‘Male’, ‘Female’ and ‘Prefer not to Say’. This closely follows the ONS Census 2021 question for sex designed to capture sex at birth, but has been slightly amended to include a ‘Prefer not to Say’ option as we do for all demographic questions in the Community Life Survey. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8

  3. This data is based on the respondent’s gender identity. Respondents were asked ‘Is the gender you identify with the same as your sex registered at birth’, with the possible responses being ‘Yes’, ‘No, type in gender identity’ or ‘Prefer not to say’.
    Patterns were identified in Census 2021 data that suggest that some respondents may not have interpreted the gender identity question as intended, notably those with lower levels of English language proficiency. Analysis of Scotland’s census, where the gender identity question was different, has added weight to this observation. More information can be found in the ONS sexual orientation and gender identity quality information report, and in the National Statistical blog about the strengths and limitations of gender identity statistics ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8

  4. Sexual orientation is an umbrella term covering sexual identity, attraction, and behaviour. For an individual respondent, these may not be the same. For example, someone in an opposite-sex relationship may also experience same-sex attraction, and vice versa. This means the statistics should be interpreted purely as showing how people responded to the question, rather than being about whom they are attracted to or their actual relationships. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8

  5. The White British ethnic group includes adults from an English, Welsh, Scottish, Northern Irish or British ethnic group ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6

  6. This is a form of socio-economic classification based on the employment status and occupation of the respondent. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8

  7. The Index of Multiple Deprivation is a geographical measure which classifies the relative deprivation of an area. It combines seven indices to produce one overall measure for the area (rather than the individual). It takes into account income, employment, education, skills and training, health and disability, crime, barriers to housing and services, and living environment. For this commentary, the most and least deprived deciles have been compared. There may be some other significant differences between deciles in between which have not been commented on here.  The analysis of the index of Multiple Deprivation was conducted using the 2019 Index of Multiple Deprivation. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8

  8. The 2024/25 Community Life Survey includes over 175,000 responses, so confidence intervals are generally very narrow. Whilst this reflects a strength of the data, when highlighting differences, some local authorities may be shown to be above/below the England average, but are only a percentage point more/ less than the average. There will be other local authorities who are much more above or below the England average, but will both be shown in the same shading within the map. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8

  9. The “Any other Black or African or Caribbean background” ethnic group is not included in reporting due to the data being suppressed, as fewer than 30 respondents selected this option. ↩

  10. This question was not included in the paper questionnaire and was asked of respondents online, so the results are only representative of the online population. ↩

  11. In 2021/22, the option ‘depends on the issue’ was presented alongside the options ‘Yes’ and ‘No’, whereas in the years 2016/17 to 2020/21 the options ‘Yes and ‘No’ were presented, and then the respondent could click onto the next page for more answer options. This change is likely to have increased the number of respondents selecting ‘depends on the issue’ in 2021/22 compared to previous years, however it is less clear how this would have impacted the other two response options. ↩

  12. These questions were asked of adults in a subsample of approximately a third of online respondents.  This question was not included in the paper questionnaire and was asked of respondents online, so the results are only representative of the online population. ↩ ↩2

  13. To note that slightly different terminology has been used in 2024/25 to refer to ‘Social Action’ findings - instead referring to this as ‘wider social action activities’.  This is to avoid confusion with the external definition of social action, which encompasses volunteering, civic engagement and charitable giving.  The question wording and format were unchanged in the survey, therefore time series data on this measure is unaffected. ↩

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