Vital Signs 2025
Discover the detailed research, community voices and case studies that reveal the full picture of life in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly today. The complete Vital Signs 2025 report provides in-depth analysis and actionable insights to help build stronger, more resilient communities across the county.
We are very proud to have worked on this research with the University of Exeter and we are very grateful to James Williams, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant, for sponsoring the publication of the Vital Signs report.
For printed copies please contact office@cornwallfoundation.com or call 01566 779333.
Cornwall’s Vital Signs is a summary document. Full research and references can be found in our longform paper: Cornwall’s Vital Issues 2025.
Click here to download a PDF of Cornwall’s Vital Issues 2025.
Vital Signs 2025 — A Snapshot of Life in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
The Vital Signs 2025 report, produced by Cornwall Community Foundation in partnership with the University of Exeter, paints a detailed portrait of life across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly — highlighting deep inequalities, pressing social challenges, and the resilience and strength of local communities.
Cornwall is a place marked by stark contrasts: stunning landscapes and vibrant culture sit alongside rising poverty, limited access to services, and a cost-of-living crisis.
The research examines eight key theme areas, exploring how social, economic, and environmental factors shape people’s lives in the county.
Key Statistics by Theme
Local Economy & Employment
Low wages remain a concern: around 1 in 5 employees (20.1%) earn below the real Living Wage, higher than the UK average.
Economic inactivity is rising, with more people out of work and struggling to find secure employment.
Public transport limitations compound job access challenges, especially in rural areas.
Housing & Homelessness
Over 21,000 households are on the social housing register — a 131% rise in five years.
Temporary accommodation has surged by 224% since 2019.
Fairness & Strong Communities
One in three children lives in poverty after housing costs.
Food banks distributed more than 35,500 emergency parcels, including 12,500 for children during 2024–2025.
Roughly 23% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, a record high.
Despite hardship, 140,000 volunteers contribute an estimated £490 million to the local economy.
Healthy Living & Health Services
Mental health waiting lists stretch up to three years for children and eleven years for adults.
Cornwall’s suicide rate is 15.6 per 100,000, above the England & Wales average.
Access to dental care ranks among the lowest nationally.
62.7% of adults are overweight or obese, highlighting public health concerns.
Safety & Crime
Only 53% of residents feel safe walking alone at night, down from 63% in 2022.
Total reported crimes are 33,083 (57.5 per 1,000 residents), lower than many similar areas.
Domestic abuse and sexual violence reports continue to rise.
65% feel there are not enough police patrols.
Education & Learning
The report highlights achievement gaps for disadvantaged pupils and teacher shortages in rural schools.
Arts, Culture & Heritage
Cornwall’s creative and cultural scenes provide community identity and opportunity, but access is hindered by transport and cost barriers.
Environment
Cornwall generates 40% of its electricity from renewables, but pollution and environmental pressures persist.
The county reports more water pollution incidents than any other local authority in England.
85% of residents believe Cornwall is affected by climate change.
What This Means for Cornwall
The Vital Signs 2025 report is more than a collection of statistics — it is a call to action. While data shows that inequality, housing pressures, health access issues, and environmental challenges are growing, the report also celebrates strengths: community spirit, volunteerism, cultural vibrancy, and grassroots innovation, which can drive positive change.
From community food hubs to homelessness support services, local organisations are stepping up to meet needs in creative and impactful ways.
