Nearly 90% of UK voters support the right to abortion, poll finds

Friday, April 24, 2026

A YouGov poll commissioned by MSI Reproductive Choices found that nearly 90% of UK voters across party lines support access to abortion services, with especially high backing among Labour, Conservative, Green, and Reform voters. This widespread approval coincides with growing concern about potential restrictions, fueling parliamentary efforts to modernize abortion laws and protect safe access amid global challenges to reproductive rights.

A recent poll indicates strong support for abortion rights among voters across the United Kingdom, with backing spanning political affiliations. Conducted by YouGov on behalf of MSI Reproductive Choices to mark its 50th anniversary, the survey found that nearly 90% of respondents favored access to abortion services. This support was evident among 94% of Labour voters, 91% of Conservative voters, 95% of Green voters, and 86% of Reform voters, highlighting a rare consensus across party lines.

Despite this broad approval, the survey also revealed concerns about the future availability of abortion services. Nearly one in five respondents expressed worry that access could diminish, a sentiment more pronounced among younger individuals, with over 25% of those aged 18 to 25 fearing potential restrictions. Factors cited include recent developments in the United States, such as the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, and the growing influence of far-right politics internationally.

Among those reflecting on these issues is Katie, 28, who relocated to the UK from Nebraska after the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling. She described the decision as a pivotal moment that altered her perception of personal medical freedoms, motivating her move. Katie emphasized the contrast between the two countries’ healthcare environments, stating she feels a greater sense of care and support within the UK’s system.

The topic of abortion, often considered taboo, appears increasingly open for discussion, particularly among younger generations. Over two-thirds of all respondents reported comfort discussing their views on abortion, with this figure rising to three-quarters among younger adults. Several women shared personal experiences underscoring this shift in openness. Daisy Roscoe, 23, from London, recounted her choice to have an abortion eight months after giving birth, describing the importance of autonomy and transparent communication with her social circle. Similarly, Sophie Verstraeten, 27, said she found support not only within her relationship but also among her predominantly male friends, who offered practical assistance and understanding.

Louise McCudden, UK head of external relations and advocacy at MSI Reproductive Choices, emphasized the poll’s indication that abortion has become a mainstream, openly discussed aspect of life in the UK. She highlighted ongoing legislative efforts by parliamentarians from various parties aimed at updating Victorian-era abortion laws, establishing safe access zones around clinics, and safeguarding telemedicine services. McCudden pointed to these developments as a source of national pride amid global challenges to reproductive rights, particularly in light of setbacks in countries like the United States.