LASSN and The State of Us report, July 2025
Resource Information
The State of Us A new report called The State of Us has been published by British Futures and the Belong Network. It looks at why people are feeling more divided, disconnected, and under pressure — as well as describing how communities are quietly holding things together through everyday acts of care, connection, and welcome. What the Report Found A year after violent Islamophobic and racist protests and unrest in many towns and cities, things still feel fragile. People are angry and anxious — mainly because it’s harder for them to afford the basics, public services feel stretched to breaking point, and immigration and asylum are being used as political footballs. The State of Us The report calls this a “social powder keg” — a build-up of tension that could easily flare up. Confidence in government, the media, and public services is low. A lot of people feel like the people in charge aren’t listening, and decisions are being made in a panic rather than with long-term thinking. Even so, the report states that most people still feel a sense of connection to where they live. Around 7 in 10 say their neighbours from different backgrounds get on well. Friendships, volunteering, and informal support networks are at the heart of this. Immigration – especially the asylum system – is often where tension shows up most. When people don’t know or have regular contact with people seeking asylum, it’s easier for fear and misinformation to take hold. The messages from politicians (from all the main parties) often don’t help, and can make things worse instead of bringing people together. The report highlights the importance of small, local projects that help people connect. These include community arts, interfaith projects, and events that bring people together over food and conversation. These are the things that build trust and belonging in real, practical ways. What Needs to Happen? The report calls for a shift in focus—from short-term, headline-driven responses to long-term, community action. It asks funders and decision-makers to support local organisations everywhere, not just in places where violence and hatred flare up, and to fund work that reflects the values and strengths of local people, rather than chasing quick wins. It also highlights the need to tackle hate and misinformation online by properly resourcing the organisations and individuals who are on the receiving end of this negativity. Crucially, it stresses the importance of celebrating the things we share, telling nuanced, more inclusive stories about who we are, and ensuring that people with lived experience aren’t just consulted, but lead the way in shaping what happens next. So where does LASSN fit in? The State of Us report paints a familiar picture for anyone working with refugees and people seeking asylum in the UK: rising demand, stretched funding, and an overwhelming sense of distrust in systems that are meant to support people. At LASSN, we see this every day — and we’re doing what we can to respond in practical ways that focus [...]
