BSA survey shows salary is second to happiness

The 33rd annual British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey shows the majority of Brits would be happy to continue working even if they didn’t need the money, and that a job’s salary is second to happiness.

The BSA survey, conducted by NatCen looks at how attitudes about different aspects of life have changed since the 1980s, including workers’ outlook on jobs. It found that 62% of respondents would enjoy having a job even if they didn’t need the money, up from 49% in 2005.

Furthermore, 63% of those in professional or managerial occupations disagree that a job is solely about the money earned. Only 34% of those in routine or semi-routine roles feel the same.

The majority of workers (71%) believe they have a “good” job, compared to just 57% in 1989 and 62% in 2005. Disappointingly, while 92% of respondents cite job security as important only around two-thirds (65%) agree they have this in their current role.

Rather worringly, 37% of workers say they experience stress always or often, compared with 28% in 1989.

The BSA survey covers several aspects of British life, including social class, welfare, work, the NHS and politics. To view the full report, visit bit.ly/2aaQC6D.