National Families Day (26th September) is the perfect opportunity to focus on ‘The percentage of households by composition’ to see what it shows us about modern family structures in Buckinghamshire.
Nadia Al-Sabouni, BII Business Partner (PGS and Communities) Buckinghamshire County Council, investigates and shares her own experience.
Following the latest Census, the Office for National Statistics have released some great reports. We’d recommend looking at ‘How life has changed in Buckinghamshire: Census 2021 (ons.gov.uk)’
The biggest change between 2011 and 2021 is a reduction in the proportion of co-habiting couples with dependent children.
This has been offset by an:
- increase in lone-parent households.
- increase in the proportion of cohabiting couples with non-dependent children i.e., living at home for longer
Economic factors such as high-housing costs and job market challenges are contributing to more young adults staying with their parents longer (Housing costs: Five surprises explained – BBC News)
How is that changing family dynamics?
We are starting to see a new concept emerge for “mummunes” where single mothers live together to create a supportive community (I’m a single mum and it’s the best thing that happened to me – BBC Three).
But does the data always tell the full picture? What about the third largest category ‘other household types’ that are on the increase. I am a platonic coparent, a single Mum, and living in a multi-generational household with my Mum (www.coparentingwithafriend.co.uk). Living together in this way:
- helps offset challenges associated with >65 year old living,
- supporting single-parents to remain economically active (childcare),
- consolidates family into one house rather than many houses (supports housing challenges),
- creates an environment of emotional support.
Your experience?
As we reflect on these evolving family dynamics, we invite you to share your experiences and insights. How have changes in family structures impacted the lives of your service users? Whether they’re part of a traditional family, a “mummune,” or another unique household arrangement, these stories can help us understand the diverse ways families are adapting to modern challenges. Join the conversation and let us know how family makeup influences your organisation. Your perspective is invaluable in painting a fuller picture of family life in Buckinghamshire today.
Email us on hello@bucksdataexchange.org or comment on LinkedIn
