Voters in the Makerfield constituency have identified the cost of living, declining high streets, and public services as top local priorities, according to a poll conducted by JL Partners for the campaign group 38 Degrees. The research, carried out ahead of the 18 June byelection, also revealed widespread disillusionment with the political system and distrust of politicians.
More than a third of the 112 residents surveyed spontaneously mentioned the cost of living when asked what changes would improve their lives. Respondents highlighted household bills, food, fuel, council tax, and the need for affordable housing. One voter said costs needed to come down “so that we can afford to actually have a life”.
When asked what issues their new MP should prioritise, three in ten cited fixing the local environment and public services, including high streets, roads, potholes, and NHS access. Immigration was raised by about one in eight, particularly among Reform UK voters. One Reform voter, aged over 55, called for “a better local high street which can thrive and support local farmers and businesses instead of barbers, vape shops and mini markets”.
Honesty from politicians and distrust in the political system were recurring themes. A Labour voter, also over 55, said he wanted “more honesty, less donations from wealthy business owners hoping to influence policy”, and for politicians to “work for the voters rather than trying to increase their own wealth”.
Tom Lubbock, co-founder of JL Partners, said Makerfield was “a snapshot of the country in miniature”, with voters wanting the high street to work, bills to come down, and a politician who tells the truth. Veronica Hawking, campaigns director at 38 Degrees, added that voters wanted “more money left at the end of month, better NHS services, and improvements to their local community”.
