Health and care workers are Britain's greatest unsung heroes, survey finds

13 December 2023 , 12:40

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Healthcare workers have been named as the UK's greatest unsung heroes (Image: SWNS)

Brits have revealed the top 20 professions that they believe contain the UK's greatest unsung heroes – with health and care workers topping the list.

Volunteers, waste collectors, and teachers are other hard workers who go under the radar, without the praise they deserve – while farmers, social workers, youth workers, and cleaners or caretakers, also ranked among the top 10 unsung heroes that keep the nation running smoothly.

The survey of 2,000 people also revealed who Brits look up to the most in their personal lives – with the average adult saying they have two people that they are inspired by.

Almost half of those polled (46%) say their parents top their personal lists of inspirational figures – with mums more likely than dads to be named as unsung heroes (36%, versus 25%).

This was followed by their friends, and their partners (both 19%) – with 18% naming their wives as heroes that don't get enough credit.

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The research was commissioned by global smartphone brand, HONOR, to celebrate unsung heroes over the Christmas holidays.

Health and care workers are Britain's greatest unsung heroes, survey finds

And nine in 10 believe that their unsung heroes deserve better recognition, and to be honoured more (SWNS)

Bond Zhang, UK CEO of the company, said: “It's important that unsung heroes are recognised, and get the credit they deserve.

“There are so many good deeds which don’t get the recognition they deserve, and that’s why we want to shine a light on those who are really making a difference and going beyond this holiday season.

“Whether it’s family and friends, or even a teacher or mentor, there’s so many factors which go into making a nice person, and it’s important to celebrate that, particularly during the winter months.”

The study also revealed that, of those who were inspired by their parents, two-thirds said it was down to the support they offered when needed, while 58% felt this way because their mum or dad believed in them.

Other factors which inspire people include someone with the ability to cheer people up, who can achieve what they put their mind to, and who cares for everyone, no matter who they are.

However, it appears many don’t always find the time to give praise and recognition to others, with just 14% doing so “very often”. There is also a struggle to accept praise which is given by others – with just 9% finding it “very easy” to accept compliments.

The research, carried out via OnePoll, found that 88% felt unsung heroes should be honoured more – and they plan to do so over the festive season by giving them gifts (17%), and contributing to charities which support their causes (16%).

Other heartfelt ways people are reaching out include promoting the good work done by their heroes, and sending a thank you card (both 13%).

Bond Zhang, of HONOR UK, which is creating a Nice List to honour unsung heroes, said: “While it might not be the easiest thing to do, telling people you appreciate them can go a long way. As the research shows, almost four in five people said receiving thanks can have a positive impact on mental health.

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“To celebrate the good work people have done over the year, we’re giving people the chance to nominate their unsung heroes, and shine a light on the good work they’ve done in helping others and their community.”

The brand will be updating its X and Instagram pages, on @HONORUK, with the unsung heroes receiving the plaudits they deserve.

BRITS’ TOP 20 BIGGEST UNSUNG HEROES: