Job Satisfaction Falls as Workers Seek More Flexibility and Better Rewards

New analysis by Resolution Foundation of data from the British Social Attitudes survey, suggests that UK workers are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with their jobs and are less willing to go 'above and beyond' for their employers.

9 Nov 2026

New analysis by Resolution Foundation of data from the British Social Attitudes survey, suggests that UK workers are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with their jobs and are less willing to go 'above and beyond' for their employers.

The study found that job satisfaction has fallen from 81% to 74%, the lowest level recorded by the survey. At the same time, the proportion of employees willing to work harder than required to help their employer succeed has dropped from 69% in 2015 to 55% in 2025. Workers are also less likely to describe their roles as interesting and report fewer opportunities for career progression.

A key finding is the growing gap between what employees want from work and what many believe they receive. The importance placed on higher incomes has risen, while demand for greater control over working hours has significantly increased from 46% to 61%. However, relatively few workers feel their current roles provide either of these benefits.

Despite concern about economic inactivity, most people still want to work, although fewer now aspire to work full-time. The research also found widespread concern about the impact of technology and AI on jobs in general, even though most workers do not believe their own role is at immediate risk.

Hannah Slaughter, Principal Economist at the Resolution Foundation, commented:

'Workers increasingly want jobs that provide flexibility, independence and financial security. But many feel those expectations are not being met.'

Internet link: Resolution Foundation