SOUTHAMPTON has been rated among top 10 cities for work happiness according a survey by business psychologists OPP.

Southampton was praised for its community spirit, volunteering opportunities and range of independent businesses in the poll which was topped by the East Anglian cathedral city of Norwich.

According to OPP’s survey of more than 2,500, employee satisfaction is on the rise, with 71 per cent of UK workers feeling satisfied in their current job.

Employee happiness across the UK is on the rise, with 36 per cent of all surveyed employees saying that they feel more satisfied at work than they did last year.

The top three factors influencing job satisfaction were:

  • Workload (26 per cent)
  • Salary increases (25 per cent)
  • Changes in management (22 per cent)

Despite improving satisfaction levels, nearly a third (31 per cent) of UK workers say they do not feel successful at work, while 35 per cent also say that they don’t receive the support they need from their employer to be successful.

John Hackston, OPP’s head of research, says: “Although it is great to see employee happiness on the rise, our research shows that job satisfaction doesn’t fully translate into feeling successful at work.

"Employees highlight that improving communication within organisations is particularly important.

"Effective communication will not only improve performance and decision-making but also enables employees to better understand the organisation’s strategy.

"By addressing the factors that affect workplace satisfaction, businesses can help their employees achieve their full potential.”

Scroll through the gallery above to see the full top 10.