Professor Jane Falkingham highlights demographic challenges on BBC Politics South

CPC-CG Director Professor Jane Falkingham CBE appeared on BBC Politics South on Sunday 13 April to discuss regional and national demographic challenges.

She explained that the Isle of Wight already has an ageing population, with many young people leaving and not returning. In 2024, just 1,100 babies were born on the island, compared to 3,000 in nearby Southampton. Nationally, birth rates have dropped to a record low of 1.44, with the decline visible across all regions.

Professor Falkingham highlighted that population ageing is driven more by falling birth rates than increased longevity. While longer lives are to be welcomed, the shrinking base of the population has serious implications for schools, social care, pensions, and the economy.

She noted that delays in family formation are linked to affordability issues, particularly housing. Many people are having fewer children than they would like. She also identified rising costs of living and limited access to services such as IVF as contributing factors.

The result is a new “double sandwich generation” – individuals simultaneously supporting elderly parents and helping their adult children with childcare, enabling their participation in the workforce.

The panel's discussions explored ideas around policies that enable people to have the families they want and support younger generations struggling with housing and financial insecurity.

Watch the interview recording (Credit: BBC):

Posted 24/04/2025 11:34