Generational differences in attitudes towards the NHS
Understanding how the next generation views the NHS
Ipsos and The King's Fund have jointly analysed evidence from a range of surveys to explore whether younger generations, particularly Generation Z, think differently about the NHS than older age groups. The analysis draws on data from British Social Attitudes, Ipsos polling, Health Foundation/Ipsos public perceptions research, and other major studies examining public attitudes towards health and public services.
The findings show that younger adults are significantly less satisfied with how the NHS is running than older generations. However, lower satisfaction does not translate into weaker support for the NHS itself. Younger people continue to view the NHS as a vital national institution and remain committed to principles such as universal access and care that is free at the point of use.
The most significant generational divide relates to funding. Younger people are more likely than older generations to believe the NHS needs additional investment, but they are less likely to support higher personal taxation as the means of providing it. The research suggests that younger generations' views on NHS funding may be shaped by the wider economic pressures they face, including housing costs and broader affordability challenges.
The findings highlight the importance of understanding how attitudes differ across generations as policy-makers consider the future of the NHS and how it is funded.
