THE quality of life is not improving in Scotland and the governments north and south of the border must work together to turn it around, according to a report from a charitable foundation.

Now in its second year, the Life in the UK index, produced by Carnegie UK, measures the wellbeing of the people of Britain by examining answers to questions across social, environmental, economic and democratic themes.

The report, based on surveys by the foundation, makes the case for governments in Edinburgh and London to co-operate on tackling inequality and boosting the collective wellbeing of Scotland’s people.

No measurable improvement was found on any count in the last year and the groups with the lowest score for wellbeing continue to be those on lower incomes, the disabled and young people aged 16 to 34.

Researchers found that almost a fifth of the respondents felt unsafe in their community after dark, while for 31 per cent, an unexpected expense of £850 could plunge them into debt and 15 per cent could not afford to heat their homes properly.

Carnegie UK’s Sarah Davidson said: “Two years in a row, our research shows high levels of inequality across Scottish society, with worrying numbers of people reporting they can’t afford to heat their home, meet an unexpected expense or feel safe in their neighbourhood.

“In 2024, it is unacceptable that so many live in such precarious circumstances.

“Scotland used to be a global leader in wellbeing public policy — the Scottish government needs to regain lost ground.”

The survey also found little trust in political institutions, with 77 per cent stating they felt they could not influence decisions at a nationwide level and 63 per cent at Scottish level.

“After a quarter century of devolution, only a minority of people in Scotland feel they have any say over the decisions that affect their lives,” Ms Davidson added.

“Our democratic wellbeing is in trouble.”

A Westminster government spokesperson said: “We’re resetting our relationship with the Scottish government to work together on improving living standards.

“Last week, the Chancellor announced a record £47.7 billion settlement for the Scottish government in 2025-26, including £3.4bn through the Barnett formula.

“We’d urge the Scottish government to ensure that money reaches front-line services.”

A Scottish government spokesperson said: “This report will be given full consideration, as part of other actions to tackle inequality and support people through difficult economic times.”