Families and Place: home is where we start from

Wednesday April 9 2008 at the RSA
Image: Images/events/panelRSA.jpg

That was the topic up for debate on Wednesday April 9 by a panel of experts from across the housing and family sectors. It was heard and contributed to by an audience which included architects, urban designers, family campaigners and local councils.

Hosted by the Family and Parenting Institute and the RSA, the debate explored whether the quality of your life, your aspirations and your family relationships were affected by the people you spend your time with or by the area in which you live.

The debate covered a wide range of issues including:

  • how raising children is not just about parenting - the environment they're in matters too;
  • the reality, and perception, of safety on housing estates;
  • establishing a community - what is needed and who should be responsible;
  • ways to improve social housing and the importance of listening to what residents want and need;
  • the need for a change in society's attitude to children and the need for more space for children and adults to enjoy together.

The debate formed the base for the Family and Parenting Institute to express and explore its interest in the issue of housing and how it affects family life and relationships.

The Institute was pleased to see such an enthusiastic debate which raised a range of important issues.

The panel (as pictured, from left to right) Mary MacLeod, Chief Executive, Family and Parenting Institute, Lynsey Hanley, writer, commentator and author of Estates: an intimate history, Poly Toynbee (Chair) columnist for The Guardian, Gerard Lemos, Partner, Lemos & Crane (Social Researchers), Sarah Gaventa, Director, CABE Space and John Swinney, Chief Executive, Pinnacle.

Last updated: 2nd May 2008 at 02:05:55