This book aims to be a starting point for a debate on policy, charting the changing nature
of the family, and what that means for parents, children and our wider society. Drawing on
the breadth of the latest new research undertaken by Ipsos MORI with Policy Exchange5,
and other existing research, we explore the changing shape of families in Britain today, the
impact of such changes on society, public opinion on the role of families and the role for
government. We highlight the key opportunities for policymakers in light of the challenges
suggested by the current demographic, social and attitudinal terrain, and what the public
thinks of these options.
