Young Londoners not only see a generational gap in wealth, but a regional one among their own peers.
At first, friends sprawled across the UK will notice that those outside the capital benefit from a cheaper lifestyle. But a few years down the line, the gap becomes a chasm.
Since leaving university, I’ve lived in six different homes across London. I’ve paid £62,000 in rent. The average house deposit in the UK is £63,855, according to UK Finance. Meanwhile, my student loan debt stands at £53,305.
At this point, I wouldn’t blame you for doubting my credentials as a Money reporter.
It’s also unclear whether London’s earnings premium comes close to addressing the disparity in living costs.
For those aged 22 to 29, the average salary is £38,000. Outside London, this age bracket earns up to £10,000 less on average. Is it worth it?
I ponder this question usually at around 8pm, when distant clanging echoes around the complex. I’ve assumed this is when the guards lock up for the night.
A review last year found that, like many British prisons, HMP Brixton was severely overcrowded.
But there is positive work being carried out, such as the award-winning Clink restaurant, which sits inside the building itself. The charitable venture is staffed by inmates and offers a gourmet set menu for £48.50.
The Clink delivers hospitality training for prisoners coming to the end of their sentence, and 69pc of restaurant graduates are in further employment or education.
