Community and Engagement Survey 2025/26 in England

The Community and Engagement Survey is an ongoing study aimed at individuals aged 16 and over in England, investigating how they interact with their community, culture, media, and live sports. In October 2025, this survey replaced the Participation Survey and Community Life Survey from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). Most data was collected between October 2025 and March 2026, providing national, regional, and local insights.

Coverage and Purpose of the Study

The study covers all of England, allowing local opinions on various issues to be heard. There is no harmonized study across the devolved administrations of the UK, but related information can be found in surveys such as the Scottish Household Survey and the National Survey for Wales. The data is managed according to the standards set by the Office for Statistics Regulation (OSR).

Methodology and Data Access

The report published on July 31, 2026, covers the period from April 2025 to March 2026. Although participation data was also collected earlier from April 2025, the focus is on the most recent information. For the interpretation of these statistics and additional details, the supplementary documents page can be consulted.

Regarding pre-publication access, only a limited number of ministers and officials were authorized to view the report, and this was only for a maximum of 24 hours prior to public release.

Upcoming Releases and Responsibilities

The next dataset is expected in September 2026, covering April to June of that year. Reports are coordinated by the responsible analyst, Dea Begaj, providing a comprehensive view of patterns and findings. Any comments on this data can be sent to [email protected].

Finally, the OSR upholds the values of trust, quality, and value in statistics, ensuring that the Community and Engagement Survey meets these standards in every publication.

Early Access Report

Early access was limited to certain individuals for preparation purposes. The list of those who received early access is detailed in the supplementary documentation and followed established best practices.

The Community and Engagement Survey remains a crucial tool for better understanding how citizens in England participate and interact with their immediate environment, supporting public initiatives and cultural policies.