The Understanding Society COVID-19 study is a survey which asks our participants questions specifically about their experiences of the coronavirus pandemic. The study started in April 2020 and has regular data collection to record the short- and medium-term impact of COVID-19 on the UK population. The dataset can be linked to the main Understanding Society survey to allow researchers to explore longer-term effects.
Wave 8 adult survey
Wave 8 of the COVID-19 study was collected in March 2021. This is the final regular wave of data that will be collected, although there will be a follow-up survey sent to participants in the late summer or early autumn.
The COVID-19 study includes core content which is asked in each wave, such as household composition, coronavirus illness, the management of long-term health conditions, employment, loneliness and general health questions. In addition to this core content, there is rotating content on wide range of topics. Wave 8 includes content on:
- Caring within the household and outside the household
- Life satisfaction
- Transport
- Travel to work
- Finances and financial security
- Housing
- Strengths and difficulties
- Neighbourhood cohesion
- Volunteering
- Flu jab and coronavirus vaccination
You can find the full content for the COVID-19 study in the long term content plan.
Wave 8 also asked for consent to send a bio-kit to participants to test whether they have COVID-19 antibodies. These kits are currently being returned by participants and the data on antibody levels will be available in the summer.
Wave 8 youth survey
This data release also includes data from the Wave 8 self-completion youth survey. This paper-based questionnaire was sent to children aged 10-16 and asked them questions on strengths and difficulties.
You can download Wave 8 from the UK Data Service.
Covid 19
