More than half of UK people feel proud of the work they do, study suggests

Only 20 per cent of the workers surveyed said they would opt for a well-paid but unfulfilling job

Four in 10 of those surveyed would rather work in a role which was challenging than one which was too easy. (PA)

Satisfaction, being challenged and "making a difference" are among a list of benefits British people believe they receive by going to work, according to a new poll.

Nearly 65 per cent of the 2,000 workers surveyed said they felt proud of the work they do, rather than just seeing it as a nine-five job.

Half of the respondents also said they would prefer a job which did not pay very well but which left them feeling fulfilled and 20 per cent would opt for a well-paid but unfulfilling job.

“The right career choice can be more than financially rewarding; it can also contribute positively to your mental health," said Martin Kersey, HR Director at the St Andrew’s Healthcare charity, which commissioned the research. “For many people, the job or career they have is a huge part of their identity and allows them to do something which can really make a difference to others.

“This is why many nurses and people working in the healthcare sector chose to join the profession; because they want to make a real difference. One in four people experience mental health problems at some point in their lives."

He added: “It is not always the easiest environment to work in but despite its challenges, we hear inspiring stories from our staff everyday about how our patients are progressing towards recovery. By working together we are able to transform the lives of people in our care, their families and carers.”

The survey found a feeling of satisfaction is the biggest benefit those polled get from their jobs, followed by knowing they are helping others and being challenged. A sense of purpose and good company complete the top five benefits of their careers.

But while 68 per cent name money as one of the main reasons for going to work, 22 per cent do so to feel worthwhile while one in five want to make a difference. Four in 10 would rather work in a role which was challenging than one which was too easy.

However, the poll found one in five don't feel fulfilled in their job and another 26 per cent are stuck in a role which does not challenge them.

One in 10 said they do not care about the work they do, with nearly half prepared to take a pay cut if it meant they would be more fulfilled and rewarded in their work.

It also emerged 14 per cent of people have lied to others about what they do, with more than half of those doing so because they felt the people they were with had more worthwhile jobs.

More than half have also felt jealous when hearing how fulfilled other people are in their careers.

Top 10 positive things British people get from their jobs:

1. Satisfaction
2. A feeling that they are helping others
3. A challenge
4. A sense of purpose
5. Good company
6. A feeling they are making a difference
7. A sense of fulfilment
8. A sense of worth
9. An opportunity to learn new things
10. Unpredictability

Top 10 reasons for going to work:

1. To earn money
2. To feel worthwhile
3. To make a difference
4. To feel rewarded
5. To get me out of the house
6. To chat with colleagues
7. To do something I believe in
8. To allow me to have my own identity
9. To meet new people
10. For company

SWNS