Porter Novelli’s new UK research explores the expectations Britons have of businesses, as well as themselves, 18-months on from the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. The results indicate a post-pandemic ‘do it’ moment with:
- 75% of UK citizens setting new personal goals coming out of lockdown as health (both physical and mental), relationships, financial security and enjoyment have become more important
- 65% of respondents thinking the post-lockdown era is a chance to have more productive conversations about the changes we want to see in the world
- A majority believing it is important for companies to take action on the issues that matter to them, including privacy and internet security (65%), climate change (63%), employee wellbeing (61%) and human rights (57%)
- Google search for the term “Net Zero” having risen 327% in the past 2 years
Yet when it comes to the role of companies, credibility is in question with:
- 63% believing companies forget about social challenges once they are out of the news headlines
- 61% agreeing that companies make promises and statements without making meaningful change
- A majority expressing concern that companies will not stick to their climate or diversity & inclusion pledges
Claire Pache, Porter Novelli’s Planning Director says:
“While events of the past 18-months have exposed divisions and inequities within society, our findings highlight shared priorities that transcend age group and region, whether it’s a commitment to take better care of our physical and emotional wellbeing or a desire to see companies take action on the biggest issues impacting our society. There is a clear sense of wanting to protect the things we hold dear – and waste no time in doing so. People are paying attention to companies that profess these values and want to see actions over words.”
To find out more, you can download the research report here.