A new report shows that 1/5 people under the age of 35 are dissatisfied with the UK’s National Health Service.
It’s no secret that the UK’s healthcare system is in a state of crisis. Although the National Health Service (NHS) has been around for decades, its decline has been a pressing matter for almost half of that time.
In the tail end of 2025, a report was filed by the NHS. The results showed a staggering decline in stats about the satisfaction with the performance of the UK’s healthcare system. The survey was conducted between August and October 2025 by over 3,000 people in England, Scotland and Wales. Results found that people under the age of 35 were strongly dissatisfied with the NHS.
What are the facts?
Recently, Health Secretary Wes Streeting addressed the report. He urged that the UK will need to undergo an “intensive recovery programme” to rectify it. The report officially declared the following statements:
- 26% of people said they were very or quite satisfied with the NHS, compared with a record low of 21% in 2024
- People in Wales were less likely to report being satisfied compared with the average, with 18% reporting satisfaction
- Overall, 14% of people were quite satisfied with social care
- Only 16% of all respondents thought the standard of NHS care would improve in the next five years, compared to 53% who said they expected it to get worse
- Around half (51%) were dissatisfied with the NHS in 2025, compared with 59% the year before
What are the complications?
The UK’s dissatisfaction with the NHS isn’t a new conversation. And while frustrations are valid, there are complications. For one, the NHS is severely understaffed. Hence, it’s difficult to expect doctors and nurses to cater to the large influx of patients who require help. Additionally, it’s alarmingly underfunded. Thus, there’s a constant issue with a lack of resources and hospital space. While these two factors remain an issue, the problem of the UK having an unreliable healthcare system persists.
When did the UK ultimately see a rise in concerns about the NHS?
During lockdown, the topic of the NHS’s deterioration was a hot one. During this period, it became clear that healthcare workers were being chronically overworked and underpaid. The global pandemic wiped out thousands. Leaving doctors and nurses to overwork themselves in a bid to combat the deadly virus.
Meanwhile, in the UK, families stood outside their houses to bang and clap pans in appreciation of their dedication during a period of turbulence. A sentimental gesture, of course. However, an act of total nonsense that didn’t actually help the NHS or its workers.
Why do the younger generation feel differently about the NHS?
More than ever, the younger generation is speaking up for the societal injustices happening in the UK. One of the largest issues is the NHS. This is because the UK hasn’t seen a change to address its lack of funding or staff hires. Thousands of patients are being dismissed daily without the correct treatment. If this is already a problem now, where thousands of young people are demanding better results, then there’s a large chance it will be a long while before it’s resolved.
What are the solutions?
It’s imperative that young people continue to flag these issues in surveys. To protest and sign important petitions. It forces people in positions of power to address the problem. The NHS still has a long way to go before it’s officially restored. The conversation is being discussed in parliament, so there is hope. However, the timeframe for actual change is uncertain.
If you want to read more stories about the UK’s healthcare system and how it affects the younger generation, sign up to become a member. Discover more stories that matter.
Laviea Thomas is a journalist at Inside Success who writes about film, music and politics.
Outside of that, she is an experienced freelance journalist with bylines in NME, The Quietus, Metal Hammer and more.
Over the years, Laviea has been an active panellist discussing fundamental conversations in the music industry, such as diversity and inclusion, and the importance of grassroots venues. She has been a panel guest for Kerrang! Focus Wales Festival, Future Yard and more.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.