Recent research reveals that residents of Makerfield consider the rising cost of living, deteriorating high streets, and declining public services as critical local issues. Additionally, many express dissatisfaction with the political landscape and harbor distrust toward politicians.
This information is derived from a focus group conducted by JL Partners for 38 Degrees, with the results shared exclusively with the Guardian. The research was conducted approximately two weeks prior to the byelection scheduled for June 18, where Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, aims to fend off a challenge from Reform UK.
The study engaged 112 participants from Makerfield, who were posed with six open-ended questions regarding the changes they wish to see prioritized, their expectations from politicians, and their messages for their future MP.
Cost of living concerns were a common theme, with over a third of respondents, regardless of political affiliation, age, or gender, highlighting this issue spontaneously. Many pointed out rising household expenses, food and fuel prices, the necessity for reduced council tax, and the demand for affordable housing. One participant remarked that the cost of living must decrease “to allow us to afford a decent life.”
The survey results align with current polling data, which indicates a tight race with Burnham holding a slight advantage over his Reform UK opponent. Among those surveyed, 31.2% indicated their intention to vote for Labour, while 30.4% favored Reform UK. The Green Party and Conservatives received 10.7% each, with 3.6% supporting the Liberal Democrats and 13.4% opting for other parties.
When asked about the priorities for their new MP, 30% of respondents identified the need to improve local environments and public services, including high streets, roads, potholes, and access to NHS care. Immigration was highlighted as a key concern by about 12% of those surveyed, particularly among Reform supporters.
Participants emphasized their desire for politicians to take bold actions, expressing that “current measures are inadequate.” A female Reform UK voter over 55 expressed her wish for “a vibrant local high street that supports local farmers and businesses instead of a proliferation of barbers, vape shops, and mini markets.”
A female Labour voter aged 34-55 commented on the rising costs of living, stating her priority was to see a decrease in council tax, “instead of it continually increasing, along with food and petrol prices,” adding, “I can barely make ends meet.” Another female Reform voter over 55 stressed the importance of prioritizing “immigration and local housing for residents rather than newcomers,” citing concerns about social housing allocation.
Tom Lubbock, co-founder of JL Partners, noted the significance of Makerfield as a microcosm of national sentiments. “Voters here are focused on the cost of living and seek practical solutions; they want functioning high streets, lower bills, and politicians who are honest and committed beyond election day,” he stated.
Lubbock further remarked on Burnham’s dual perception among constituents, suggesting that while some view him as a prospective prime minister worth supporting, others feel he is using the constituency as a mere stepping stone.
Honesty and trust in the political system emerged as another central theme. A male Labour voter over 55 expressed a desire for “greater transparency, reduced influence from wealthy business interests, and politicians who prioritize the electorate’s needs over personal gain.”
“The party that can convince Makerfield residents it will genuinely fulfill its promises, rather than merely saying what is necessary to win, will secure victory both locally and nationally,” Lubbock asserted.
Veronica Hawking, campaigns director at 38 Degrees, emphasized that Makerfield voters are sending a clear message to their future MP: “We are real individuals, not just statistics.”
She highlighted the immense pressure families are facing due to the ongoing cost of living crisis and their exhaustion with a political system perceived as dysfunctional and self-serving. “Their sentiments reflect those of voters across the nation, who are eager for political reform,” she noted.
Hawking concluded that voters are seeking “more disposable income at the end of the month, enhanced NHS services, and improvements in their local community,” stressing the need for an MP who is trustworthy and capable of delivering on their commitments.
