Just 29% of the UK public have a personal interest in R&D

UK public support for R&D is ‘broad but shallow’, according to a new report by the Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE). The science advocacy group warns that public backing for science spending is fragile, with many people finding it difficult to connect R&D’s benefits to the issues that matter most in their lives.

The new report summarises the findings of a survey commissioned by CaSE that asked more than 8000 people about their views on scientific research. While more than 88% agreed that it is important for the government to invest in R&D, just 29% said that they feel a connection or personal interest in research.

The survey found that less than a third of people could immediately think of lots of ways R&D benefits the country (29%) or their region (22%), while just 18% could describe the benefits to their local area, themselves or their family.

The findings led CaSE to warn that it can’t be assumed ‘that the public will continue to back investment into something that doesn’t feel tangible, and whose benefits they don’t personally see or feel in their lives’.

CaSE recommends that the research sector ‘embraces storytelling’ and works harder to showcase real-world examples where research addresses problems and priorities. It also suggests that the sector does more to connect with local communities, noting that ‘few people are aware of the R&D activities taking place in their own communities, yet there is evident curiosity and appetite to learn more’. The group adds that the data shows a strong link between local awareness of R&D and support for higher levels of funding.

‘Many of the findings from CaSE’s latest research are positive – but the overriding message is one of caution,’ said Rebecca Hill, CaSE’s public opinion and involvement manager, who led the project. ‘At times of political change, our sector needs public advocates more than ever. However, we cannot assume the public’s support when R&D and its benefits feel vague, intangible and removed from people’s everyday lives.’

‘To earn public support, our sector must build stronger and deeper connections with the public, offering transparency and genuine engagement, while making R&D feel more human, more local and more relevant,’ she added.