Many helping hands: How intergenerational transfers support lifetime living standards

Transfers between generations – from care given to younger or older relatives, to gifts, inheritances and a roof over one’s head – play a vital role in society. But despite their importance to family living standards, they are often misunderstood. If we’re to better appreciate how modern Britain operates, we need to understand the economic significance of these intergenerational transfers, and what they mean for individuals and families.

How has the extent and intensity of care provided across generations changed over time, and for what reasons? Have demographic and economic changes increased the need for intergenerational support? Who can access intergenerational financial support, and who provides it? And what does this mean for different people’s ability to work, live comfortably and get ahead in a career?

Speakers:

Ann Berrington, Professor of Demography & Social Statistics University of Southampton

Eliza Filby, Author and historian of generations and contemporary values

Molly Broome, Economist, Resolution Foundation

David Willetts, President of the Resolution Foundation (Chair)