Understanding Society - May 2012

In our latest edition of Understanding Society, we bring together expert economic commentary and the latest on public confidence in the economy.

The most crucial issue currently facing the government is how to ensure economic growth whilst remaining committed to cutting the budget deficit and putting the UK on a sustainable economic path for the future. So in this, our latest edition of Understanding Society, we bring together expert economic commentary and the latest on public confidence in the economy. We are delighted to have analysis from co-chair of the LSE Growth Commission, Professor Tim Besley and Matthew Oakley, Head of Economics & Social Policy at Policy Exchange. The rest of this report includes analysis of:

  • Public concern about the UK economy including our latest issues index infographic; 
  • The role of consumer sentiment in the housing market; 
  • The impact of economic downturn on those on low incomes; and 
  • The relationship between public perceptions of a country’s economic health and the re-electability of its government.

At the Ipsos Social Research Institute, we are committed to sharing the key messages from our research, in the belief that a better understanding of public opinion will lead to better policy and outcomes. We hope you enjoy this report and if you would like to discuss any of the issues it raises, then please get in touch.

Download

More insights about Public Sector

  • Recycling centre sign
    Evaluations Ipsos Voices

    Tracking Progress: What England's waste data tells us about the road ahead

    Since 2022, Ipsos UK, working with Technopolis and Ricardo and commissioned by Defra, has been looking at the progress made by Defra’s Resource and Waste Policy Programme. Now in its fourth year, the evaluation of the Resource and Waste Policy Programme reveals a nuanced picture: progress is being made, but significant challenges remain for long-term impact to materialise.
  • Food & Diet Publication

    FSA consumer survey, conducted by Ipsos, reveals appetite for healthy and sustainable diets

    Since 2020, Ipsos has been running the FSA’s flagship consumer survey, Food and You 2. Research from the survey, published by the Food Standards Agency reveals the highest level of public confidence in food safety recorded since the start of the project.
  • Group of women
    Gender Ipsos Voices

    International Women's Day 2026: Spotlight Projects in Public Affairs

    As has now become a tradition for our team; to mark International Women’s Day 2026 we have taken the opportunity to reflect on the wide range of policy areas and projects delivered across Public Affairs over the past year. In this third edition, we shine a spotlight on how this work aligns with and advances this year’s theme, “Give to Gain.”

Related news