Case study · Residents and communities
Exploring the impact of Universal Credit on Manchester residents
Focus groups and depth interviews explored the financial, physical, and emotional impact of Universal Credit, complementing quantitative research undertaken by Manchester City Council.
AudienceManchester residents affected by Universal Credit
ApproachThree focus groups and five depth interviews
Value to Manchester City CouncilQualitative evidence to complement the Council’s survey and evaluate resident impact
The brief
- Manchester City Council wanted to understand the impact of Universal Credit following its phased rollout across the city.
- Qualitative research was commissioned to complement a quantitative survey conducted by the Council.
The approach
- Three focus groups were held in the north, central, and south of Manchester.
- Five in-depth telephone interviews provided additional individual perspectives.
- Enventure Research used a discussion guide exploring financial, physical, and emotional wellbeing, with 16 participants taking part overall.
The outcome
- Common themes were identified and presented in a research report, supported by anonymised verbatim quotations.
- The findings were used alongside the Council’s quantitative findings to evaluate the impact of rollout of Universal Credit on residents and identify what support can be provided.