A new YouGov Scottish Omnibus survey has shown how those in Scotland feel about their household finances and their general quality of life compared to this time last year.
The figures will have particular relevance in the run up to the election in May. Compared to this time a year ago, a third (33%) feel either a little or much more negative. This compares to the 22% who are a little or much more positive.
However, the results do show that for many (43%), there has been no great change in how they feel about their household’s financial situation compared to 12 months ago.
How does this relate to Scots general quality of life? Well, half (50%) said they felt there had been no change. Meanwhile, just short of three in ten (29%) thought it had either worsened slightly or significantly. This compares with the 19% who believe their quality of life has improved.
Analysing the figures in more detail, it is actually the younger age groups that are most positive. 30% of 18-24 year olds are more positive about their household finances than this time last year, compared to 18% of 55+ year olds.
There is also a slight but noticeable gender divide. Females feel more negative about their finances than men. Almost four in ten (39%) females say they feel more negative compared to 27% of men.
Stephanie Frost, Senior Research Executive, YouGov Omnibus commented on the findings; ‘‘The last year in Scotland has been politically charged in a unique way. However, when arguments are set aside, and the core issue of the economy and household finances are analysed, it is clear that the majority are not feeling a major uplift in their general quality of life or financial situation. How this changes in the months ahead will be crucial to deciding the way Scots view the election and beyond.’’
