Researchers from the University of St Andrews are carrying out an innovative online study to explore the housing wealth gap facing the under-35s. IF asked them to supply more details, and explain how you can get involved
Young people are facing new and different challenges and changes in their housing opportunities. There are many issues that help or hinder young adults’ independent living – not least the very different context and circumstances that young people have to deal with today, compared to when their own parents were young people. What are the implications of this for the future welfare of young people? Are the interests of young people being fairly represented in policy and Government?
Researchers from the University of St Andrews are running a new study to explore these issues. The study is part of a larger programme of research called ‘Mind the (Housing) Wealth Gap: Intergenerational Justice and Family Welfare’. Funded for three years by the Leverhulme Trust, and run by a collaboration of researchers based in St Andrews, Durham and Birmingham, the goal of this research programme is to understand the generational impact of changing patterns of wealth within families. In particular, the researchers are interested in the growing role played by housing assets in determining the financial security of individuals across the life course.
An innovative online study
Using an innovative combination of online chat room discussions, Skype and telephone interviews, the Wealth Gap Youth study is a forum for under-35s to share their views and concerns about housing, wealth and family support. Young people taking part will have an opportunity to discuss their housing aspirations, challenges to accessing housing and homeownership, and their feelings about getting help from parents through financial and in-kind support. The research is also seeking young people’s thoughts on the effectiveness of UK governments and political parties in representing the interests of young adults. Through the online discussions, the study will also focus on young people’s financial outlook and their strategies for building financial security in the future.
As a thank-you for taking part in the research, all participants will receive a £10 gift voucher.
How to get involved
The Wealth Gap Youth study is focusing on ten case study locations across the UK. The researchers are currently seeking participants to take part in the online focus groups and interviews.
To be eligible, you must be aged between 18 and 35 years, and currently living in one of the following locations: North Lanarkshire, Edinburgh, Scottish Borders, Surrey, Sheffield, Merthyr Tydfil, Gwynedd, Belfast or Ballymena.
If you would like to get involved in this research, please contact:
Wealth Gap Youth Study
Email: [email protected]
Call: 01334 467297
For more information about this research, visit the project homepage at:
http://wealthgap.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk/work-streams/ws4/get-involved/
Authors
Dr Pauline McLoughlin, Research Fellow, University of St Andrews
Dr Kim McKee, Lecturer, University of St Andrews
Dr Beverley Searle, Research Fellow, University of St Andrews