A Reflection on 24 Years in the UK: From an Immigrant’s Perspective on Change, Politics, and Hope for the Future

Twenty-four years ago, I arrived in the UK with a two-year working visa, having saved every penny to meet the strict financial requirements. Back then, the UK was a very different place—its economy was more stable, its culture felt more cohesive, and its immigration system demanded significant effort from those who sought to make it their home. It was a country that offered opportunity but also had high expectations. Now, I look back with mixed feelings: a deep gratitude for the life I’ve been able to build here with my Italian wife and family, but also concern for the native British people who seem to have been left behind by successive governments.

Changes Over Time: The Good and the Bad

In those early days, like many immigrants, I faced challenges. Even though I’m white and speak English fluently, I sometimes felt like an outsider. It was a struggle to find my place, but the UK opened doors for me, allowing me to build a stable home and a family. For that, I will always be thankful. This country gave me the chance to integrate, work, and thrive, and for that I will always have a deep respect for the UK.

But as the years passed, I’ve seen a lot change, and not always for the better. The UK has become more divided—socially, economically, and politically. There is a growing sense of "two-tier" everything, where the wealthier class seems to live in a different world from ordinary working people. Rising inequality, strained public services, and endless political squabbles have left many Brits feeling abandoned. It’s deeply saddening to see a country that once felt united now so fractured.

The Hard Truth About National Debt

One of the most under-discussed crises facing the UK right now is the mounting national debt. Over the last decade, the debt has ballooned to ￡2.6 trillion, representing more than 100% of the UK's GDP. This means the government owes more than the entire annual output of the economy, a burden that will fall on the shoulders of future generations if it isn’t tackled soon.

How did we get here? A combination of factors:

• The 2008 financial crisis and its aftermath required massive government borrowing to stabilize the economy and support struggling industries.
• The COVID-19 pandemic forced the government to borrow unprecedented amounts to keep the country afloat, with furlough schemes, business support packages, and increased healthcare spending.
• Finally, the energy crisis and rising inflation have only exacerbated the problem, as the government has had to step in with more borrowing to keep households and businesses from collapse.

The truth is, if this debt continues to rise unchecked, the UK will face a bleak financial future. The cost of servicing this debt is rising, with around ￡100 billion a year now going toward interest payments alone—money that could otherwise be spent on healthcare, education, infrastructure, or reducing taxes. If this problem isn’t addressed, it could lead to even more austerity, deep cuts to public services, and higher taxes for working people.

The government needs to be honest with the public about the consequences of this growing debt and work toward reducing it, but it will require hard choices and long-term planning—something that’s been lacking for far too long. Without a plan to reduce the debt, the UK risks economic stagnation and further widening inequality.

The Role of Immigration

As an immigrant myself, I understand the complexity of the immigration debate. The UK, like many developed countries, has struggled with how to manage immigration in a way that benefits everyone. When I came to the UK, I had to meet strict financial requirements to gain entry. Today, the system feels different, and while I’m deeply sympathetic to the plight of refugees and others seeking better lives, there is no doubt that uncontrolled immigration has put significant strain on public services. It’s led to a sense of resentment among many native Brits, who feel like their needs are being overlooked.

I feel incredibly sorry for the people of this country—those who have watched their communities change rapidly, often without feeling like they’ve had a say in it. These changes are happening at a time when many British people are struggling with the cost of living, job security, and housing, and it’s understandable why they feel left behind.

The Current Political Landscape

Since Labour took over from the Conservatives, there’s been hope for real change, but that hope is quickly fading. The general feeling toward politics in this country has been one of disillusionment for years, and unfortunately, Labour has not yet risen to the occasion. While the Conservatives were mired in scandal and mismanagement, Labour seems equally out of touch with the realities facing ordinary people. There is a deep disconnect between the political class and the public—and this isn’t just about policy, but about communication.

What frustrates me most is the unwillingness of the government to open a real conversation with the people. Instead of addressing the concerns of those who feel disenfranchised, they push forward with policies that don’t seem to tackle the root problems. Immigration, housing, healthcare, and economic inequality are critical issues that need a thoughtful, transparent discussion with the public—not just more top-down decision-making.

Levelling Up: A Potential Long-Term Positive

One area where I do see potential for real long-term benefit is the Levelling Up agenda. While it has faced its share of criticisms for slow progress, the intent behind it is important. The government has committed to reducing regional inequalities by investing in infrastructure and opportunities in areas that have been left behind, particularly in the North of England.

Done right, levelling up could help revitalize struggling regions, create jobs, and improve living standards in places that have been neglected for too long. By focusing on education, infrastructure, and economic development, this initiative has the potential to help create a more balanced economy that benefits all parts of the UK, not just London and the South East. It’s a long game, but if the government sticks to it, this could be one of the bright spots in the country’s future.

Education Reforms: Preparing for the Future

The government’s focus on improving vocational education through initiatives like T-Levels and apprenticeships is another area with long-term promise. By offering young people practical, job-ready skills, these programs are designed to help address the skills gap in key industries like engineering, construction, and technology. If successful, this could significantly improve youth employment and provide the workforce the UK needs to thrive in the future economy.

Additionally, the government has committed to improving outcomes for disadvantaged students, and while it’s slow progress, these education reforms have the potential to level the playing field and ensure that every young person has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.

Life Sciences: A Global Leader

Another positive area is the UK’s continued strength in life sciences and medical innovation. The government’s investment in gene sequencing and medical research. The UK has an opportunity to remain a global leader in this sector, with long-term benefits for both the economy and public health.

Investment in life sciences not only drives innovation but also creates high-skill jobs, which are vital for the UK’s future. By continuing to support this sector, the UK can maintain its competitive edge in a fast-evolving global economy.

The Upcoming Budget and a Need for Change

As we await the upcoming budget announcement, the rumour mill is already painting a grim picture. There is talk of more austerity, cuts to public services, and tax increases that will hit ordinary people the hardest. Once again, it feels like the burden will fall on those least able to shoulder it, while those with wealth and influence continue to live in a bubble, unaffected by the struggles facing most Brits.

It’s time for the government to take a hard look at how it communicates and engages with the public. More than ever, people want honesty, transparency, and a willingness to address the real issues. Programs like levelling up, education reforms, and investment in life sciences show promise, but the country needs to see consistent progress and tangible benefits if these initiatives are to rebuild trust in politics.

My Hope for the Future

Despite the challenges, I remain hopeful. I’ve been able to build a life here, and I want to see this country prosper—not just for me, but for the native Brits who have been here for generations. I want to see a UK that thrives economically, that embraces diversity while maintaining its cultural identity, and that ensures equality of opportunity for all its people.

This country has an incredible history, and its people deserve a government that is willing to face the challenges head-on, with honesty and humility. I still believe the UK can regain its sense of unity and pride, but it will require real leadership and a willingness to engage with the public in a meaningful way.

I want to see a prosperous, proud UK—one where the people feel heard, respected, and valued. I still believe that’s possible, and I hope the next generation of leaders will rise to the occasion.