British Values: What are they and what do they mean?

Fundamental British Values underpin what it is to be a citizen in a modern and diverse Great Britain, valuing our community and celebrating diversity of the UK. They can be used to find common values amongst many different types of groups and individuals.

People often confuse ‘values’ with ‘stereotypes’ when discussing what British Values are.

Stereotypes are generalised beliefs about a particular category of people. They can be formed during our upbringing when we take on the views of family and friends, or from our own experiences. Stereotypes are expectations that people might have about every person of a particular group. The type of expectation can vary, and it can include preconceptions about the group's personality, preferences, or ability.

Some stereotypes about British Values include:

• Being polite
• Eating fish and chips
• Having a monarchy
• Queuing
• Drinking cups of tea
• Talking about the weather
• Roast Dinners on a Sunday

Values are principles or standards of behaviour. Individuals make judgements on what is important in life, and this informs the way they behave and treat others.

The four recognised fundamental British Values are:

• Democracy
• The Rule of Law
• Individual liberty
• Mutual respect and tolerance for those with different beliefs and faiths, including those with no faith

Click here to watch a video for a full explanation

Further information can be found on the Learner support section of the website including:

eLearning module ‘What are British Values’

eLearning module ‘Prevent, Radicalisation and Extremism’

Guide – 'Safeguarding – British Values’