The General Lifestyle Survey (GLF), formerly known as the General Household Survey, is a significant UK sample survey initiated in 1971. This survey aimed to collect detailed information about the labour force and household expenditure. The GLF has been instrumental in shaping public policy and economic strategies through its comprehensive data collection, with breaks occurring only in 1997-1998 and 1999-2000 for redevelopment.
Historical Context
The GLF was a pivotal tool for the Office for National Statistics (ONS), reflecting societal changes and economic conditions in the UK over several decades. In January 2012, due to the necessity to harmonize UK and EU poverty indicators, the GLF was replaced by a new survey derived from the Opinions Survey. Simultaneously, the income and living conditions questions required by European law transitioned to the Family Resources Survey.
Key Events
- 1971: Introduction of the General Household Survey.
- 1997-1998, 1999-2000: Survey paused for redevelopment.
- 2000-2011: GLF comprised continuous survey and additional modules.
- 2012: GLF replaced by a new survey and relevant questions migrated to the Family Resources Survey.
Survey Structure
From 2000 to 2011, the GLF had two main components:
- Continuous Survey: Conducted throughout the year to gather consistent data.
- Additional Modules/Trailers: Addressed specific themes on a rotational basis, enabling a broader scope of data collection.
Importance
The data from the GLF have been vital for:
- Policy Making: Informing government decisions on labour, health, and welfare.
- Economic Planning: Offering insights into household expenditures and living conditions.
- Academic Research: Providing a rich dataset for sociological and economic studies.
Applicability
Data collected through the GLF have been applied in various domains including:
- Labour Market Analysis: Understanding employment trends.
- Social Welfare: Crafting welfare policies based on living conditions data.
- Health Sector: Examining health trends and healthcare usage among different demographics.
Key Findings and Examples
One notable finding from the GLF data:
- Trend in Employment: Over the decades, the survey revealed a steady increase in female participation in the labour force, influencing gender equality policies.
Transition to New Surveys
With the GLF phased out in 2012, the Opinions Survey and Family Resources Survey now carry on the mission. These new surveys maintain consistency with EU regulations and continue to provide invaluable data.
Related Terms
- Family Resources Survey (FRS): The survey that inherited income and living conditions questions from the GLF.
- Opinions and Lifestyle Survey: The survey replacing the GLF, focusing on more diverse and rotating thematic questions.
Comparisons
| Survey Component | GLF | Opinions Survey |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Labour force, expenditure | Rotating themes, public opinion |
| Frequency | Continuous | Monthly |
FAQs
What was the purpose of the General Lifestyle Survey?
Why was the GLF replaced in 2012?
Conclusion
The General Lifestyle Survey played a critical role in the UK’s data landscape from 1971 to 2011, providing essential insights into household expenditure and labour trends. Although now replaced, its legacy continues through subsequent surveys that uphold its standard of comprehensive data collection.
References
- Office for National Statistics (ONS) - www.ons.gov.uk
- Family Resources Survey (FRS) - www.gov.uk
- Eurostat - ec.europa.eu/eurostat
In summary, the GLF stands as a cornerstone in the history of UK surveys, reflecting the dynamic nature of society and economics and laying a foundation for future statistical endeavors.
