What do people in England think are the essential conditions needed to live in dignity, safety and security? Should these things be protected in domestic law?  

In December 2020, Just Fair conducted a survey to gather views on economic and social rights in England.  The purpose of the survey was to gain insight into public awareness of economic and social rights, and whether people would like to see these rights protected in law. 

Key findings 

• 88% of respondents in England agree that economic and social rights are the basic rights and freedoms that we all exercise every day, and we care about protecting these rights. 

• 85% of respondents in England strongly agree that the right to food should be protected by law in our country. 

• 82% of respondents in England strongly agree that access to food, clothing and water are all human rights. 

• 85% of respondents in England strongly agree that healthcare should be enjoyed by everyone and protected in the law so that we can all live in dignity and safety. 

• 87% of respondents in England strongly agree that having a decent place to live is a basic right that we all need every day, the right to access adequate housing should be protected by law. 

• 89% of respondents in England strongly agree that all people should have access to an education, and this should be protected by law. 

• 89% of respondents in England agree that if we legally protect everyone’s right to social security and give all families the financial support they need to get by, we can build a more equal country. 

• 96% of respondents in England agree that all people should be allowed to work, and this should be protected by law. 

• 85% of respondents in England agree that equal pay is a human right. 

The findings of this research study confirm the view that protecting our economic and social rights is supported by respondents in England, with different and multiple intersecting characteristics.  

To find out more, contact our Campaigns and Advocacy Lead, Misha Nayak-Oliver.