New research from greetings card marketplace thortful reveals the UK’s top 40 unsung heroes, as voted by the British public, highlighting those who make a difference daily. From NHS workers to waste collectors, these individuals and groups are recognised for their tireless contributions to society.
The survey, conducted by thortful, shows NHS workers leading the list, with 30% of respondents voting them as most deserving of gratitude for their life-changing dedication. Volunteers follow at 23%, praised for their selfless support, while young carers, children who look after their parents, rank third at 22%. Farmers (21%) and teachers (20%) complete the top five, reflecting appreciation for those who feed and educate the nation.
The list spans diverse roles, from community volunteers (18%) to waste collectors (15%), cleaners (14%), and postal workers (9%). Even pets (9%) and the vets (8%) who care for them earn recognition, alongside courteous commuters who hold train doors open (5%). Less expected entries include Alexa, the Amazon device (2%), and “drunk girls in the toilet on a night out” (1%), showing the public’s broad appreciation for small acts of kindness.
Key findings from the research
- NHS workers dominate gratitude. 30% of Brits voted them top for their relentless care, especially evident during crises like the pandemic.
- Volunteers shine. 23% recognised volunteers, including community (18%) and helpline (16%) workers, for their unpaid efforts.
- Young carers celebrated. 22% of respondents highlighted children caring for parents, showcasing their emotional and practical support.
- Essential workers valued. Farmers (21%), waste collectors (15%), and cleaners (14%) are lauded for keeping society running.
- Unexpected heroes. From bartenders (2%) to people warning about loo roll on shoes (3%), small gestures matter.
The research underscores the public’s desire to thank those who often go unnoticed. Foster parents (16%), social workers (8%), and single parents (6%) are acknowledged for their resilience, while practical roles like plumbers (3%) and electricians (3%) also feature. Even milkmen (3%) and baristas (2%) make the cut, reflecting nostalgia and appreciation for daily interactions.
Thortful has responded by creating thank you cards tailored for these unsung heroes, allowing Brits to express gratitude directly. The initiative taps into a cultural moment where acknowledging everyday contributions, from supermarket workers (7%) to funeral directors (5%), feels vital. The inclusion of light-hearted entries like navigators (1%) and wedding planners (2%) suggests a public eager to celebrate both the profound and the playful.
This list, verified through thortful’s survey conducted in 2025, aligns with broader societal trends. For instance, recent studies from the Office for National Statistics show volunteering in the UK remains strong, with over 15 million people contributing annually. Similarly, NHS England data highlights that over 1.3 million staff support the health service, reinforcing their top ranking. These figures ground the public’s sentiment in tangible impact.
The diversity of the list reflects the UK’s complex social fabric, where traditional roles like teachers and modern conveniences like delivery workers (9%) coexist. Even the nod to Alexa (2%) points to technology’s growing role in daily life, though human connection remains paramount. The survey’s inclusion of “people that hold the train door open” (5%) captures the small, human moments that resonate deeply.
By spotlighting these heroes, thortful’s campaign encourages a culture of gratitude. As the UK navigates ongoing challenges, from economic pressures to social care demands, recognising those who keep communities thriving is more important than ever. Whether it’s a farmer ensuring food security or a bartender lifting spirits, these unsung heroes deserve their moment of thanks.