Families form the foundation of society, and understanding how they are doing and changing is vital for communities, local economies and policymakers. They are more dynamic than we think, changing individually and collectively over time, with a trend towards later marriage, more cohabitation, later children and more diverse forms. In recent years families have had to navigate the Great Financial Crisis, austerity, structural changes in the housing and labour markets, the pandemic, and now the cost of living crisis.
This major conference will focus on the long-term challenges faced by families and debate the direction for policy and action. Supported by expert speakers and emerging evidence from Understanding Society, it will focus on four major areas: starting a family; parenting and health; economic constraints and poverty; and housing. With a new government keen to drive change and promote social mobility, what does life-course and long-term evidence point to for improving the lives of families? How can we better integrate vertical policies, including the expected UK Child Poverty Strategy, with evidence-based programmes and family services to support those most vulnerable or disadvantaged?
When and where?
The conference will take place on 31 October, 9.30 – 5.30, at Coin Street Neighbourhood Centre, London. It’s free to attend, but you need to register in advance.
Find the full programme for the conference and book your place on our events page.
Family and householdsYoung people
