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Fabric of Britain: Weaving the story

  • Weaving the story


    Saving money, whether it's to travel the world or for a deposit for a house, is a major perk of moving back in with our parents, which a quarter of 20-34 year olds are taking advantage of. But is it the only perk or is there more to it?

    Saving money, whether it's to travel the world or for a deposit for a house, is a major perk of moving back in with our parents, which a quarter of 20-34 year olds are taking advantage of. But is it the only perk or is there more to it?

We commissioned a project, bringing together documentary photographer Emily Macinnes and leading textile artist Jessica Dance that highlights the positive impacts on families of the societal trend of 'Boomerang Britain'.

Emily visited a range of boomerang families around Britain - from the South East to the north of Scotland capturing their lives together. Uncovering the reasons why they returned home and finding out how mum and dad really feel about the nest suddenly being full once again.

Jessica combined textile art and photography, creating a tapestry which is inspired by these engaging stories, showcasing the benefits of the boomerang home for both parents and their children.

  • The stories of the 'boomerang' generation


    Louise O'Donoghue, 23

    Louise O'Donoghue, 23

Louise moved to Manchester for university in 2011, living in halls and then with friends in rented accommodation. After three years, she was set to graduate and faced with a big decision: rent a house or move back home with mum, Lynn, and stepdad, Andy. Returning home was the decision.

She quickly landed a job in 2014 and the flexibility of living at home has allowed her to concentrate on her career and save for a deposit for her own house, which she'll buy with her boyfriend, who is also living with his parents.

Moving back home to save for a deposit is a common reason for the 'Boomerang generation', who are challenged with a difficult housing market before they can begin to climb the property ladder. It's not all about finances though, particularly not for Louise - she's enjoying a newfound friendship with her mum and loves spending quality time with her.

Adam Edmond, 25

Yorkshire lad Adam wasn't sure what he wanted to do professionally after school. Deciding to spend time travelling, he worked as a farmhand whilst saving up for a 15-month trip to Canada and Australia.

After the experience of a lifetime, he moved into his parents' new small holding, from which his dad, Phil, runs an antiques business and small farm. Realising the potential for the business, Adam now helps run the digital side of the company, including building a website, and even doing a marketing course to help the venture succeed.

This has brought father and son closer together than ever, and the pair regularly bond on cycle trips and over a pint at the local pub. Adam has also used the opportunity to save more money for a visit to New Zealand with his girlfriend.

Travel is clearly an important part of life for Adam, as it is for many Millennials, and living with his parents has given him the opportunity to save for more trips, as well as develop a profession.

Sheree Lim, 23

Many young people recognise the career opportunities in London, but are unable to afford the rental costs. For 23-year-old Sheree moving back home with mum, Janice, who is based conveniently close to London meant that she can develop a career while not being burdened with the concerns of paying the high rents properties in London are famous for. Even better, mum and daughter have developed a fantastic relationship since her return, with the two spending plenty of time together and supporting one another.

So as we can see saving money, whether it's to travel the world or for a deposit for a house, is often the driving factor when moving back in with mum and dad but our stories show that for those in 'Boomerang Britain' there is so much more to living with mum an dad than saving.

Want to share your own boomerang story? Use the hashtag #BoomerangBritain on Twitter or Facebook and let us know your thoughts and experiences.