Who Receives Housing Support from Parents or Relatives in the UK?

Shuqi Lyu , University of St Andrews
Hill Kulu, University of St Andrews
Sarah Christison, University of St Andrews
Julia Mikolai, University of St Andrews

Owner-occupation is an important symbol of wealth, stability and wellbeing. However, younger generations in the UK face increasing barriers to homeownership. A growing percentage of young adults rely on assistance from their parents when purchasing properties, a phenomenon which may raise the issue of widening inequalities and hindering social mobility among younger generations. Nevertheless, quantitative research on related topics in the UK is limited due to the lack of relevant and suitable survey data. This study uses the most recent waves of the UK Household Longitudinal Study (UKHLS) which includes new questions about housing support and its providers. Results of our analysis show that adult children most likely to receive parental housing support are those under the age of 30, never married, second-generation immigrants, highly educated, or purchase properties in London or Wales. Having three or more siblings or experiencing family disruption before adulthood has a negative impact on the likelihood of receiving parental housing support, whereas having highly educated parents aged over 65 has a positive effect. This study contributes to the understanding of how the likelihood of receiving housing support is shaped by individuals’ characteristics, parents’ characteristics and geographic location. It highlights the inequalities in receiving parental assistance and has potential policy implications for those who lack such assistance and their route to homeownership. Further research will study the effects of different types of parental support (e.g., regular support, financial transfer, co-residence, inheritance) on the timing of homeownership transitions and housing outcomes.

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 Presented in Session 96. Intergenerational Relations, Financial Support and Inequalities