Researching Reydon

In-depth, qualitative research is being carried out in Suffolk’s coastal communities this autumn, commissioned by Suffolk County Council in partnership with East Suffolk Council.

The aim of this work is to provide an understanding of the unique conditions faced by people living in Suffolk’s coastal communities. It complements parallel research into official statistics describing the area and the needs and issues faced by residents and communities.

Research background

Suffolk County Council, in partnership with East Suffolk Council, has commissioned social research organisations SQW and Social Life to conduct research into the unique local conditions faced by people living in Suffolk’s coastal communities.

Our two research questions are:

1. How are Suffolk’s coastal communities doing at present? This links to perspectives on individual and collective wellbeing.

2. How might Suffolk’s coastal communities navigate the future? This links to perspectives on resilience in the context of economic, social and environmental change.

Work done to date

SQW has begun research to develop a coherent data framework and scoping interviews have been conducted with key local community and public sector representatives. Three communities have been identified as research sites: Hollesley, Reydon and Kessingland.

Qualitative research

This autumn, the Social Life team will visit the three communities to carry out in-depth research. We will:

• conduct interviews with stakeholders and community representatives.

• carry out in-person street interviews, with an online version of the survey also promoted.

• hold group discussions.

• map local social infrastructure.

The qualitative research will:

• capture perceptions and understanding of key issues linked to wellbeing and resilience.

• explore the protective factors that can support wellbeing and future resilience in the three locations.

• capture the views of all groups living in the three areas, including those less often represented.

Next steps

Social Life plan to begin reaching out to local stakeholders and parish councillors as soon as possible, in advance of visiting the three communities in late September/early October.