According to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, trust in institutions is rising in the UK, but for younger generations, frustration and disillusionment remain a significant challenge, highlighting the need for urgent action.
The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer reveals that trust in institutions in the UK has risen slightly, with the Trust Index increasing to 43, up by 4 points from 2024. However, the UK remains among the lower-ranked nations in overall trust. Globally, 61% of respondents feel that government and business make their lives harder and primarily serve the interests of the wealthy, contributing to widespread dissatisfaction. This growing sense of grievance is undermining trust in institutions, including business, government, media, and NGOs.
Additionally, 40% of respondents approve of hostile activism, such as spreading disinformation or committing acts of violence, as a means of driving change, with this sentiment particularly strong among 18-34-year-olds, where approval rises to 53%. The report highlights the urgent need for collective action from institutions to address these grievances and rebuild societal trust.
Background
According to their website, ‘Edelman is a global communications firm that partners with businesses and organizations to evolve, promote and protect their brands and reputations.’ The barometer was conducted in October and November 2024 with 33,000+ respondents from 28 countries, averaging 1,150 participants per country. Edelman has conducted this research for over ten years. Explore the Trust Barometers of 2023 and 2024.
