At Scripture Union, research helps us understand the realities facing children, young people and families today – so we can create ministry, resources and support that make a real difference.
Research that helps us reach the next generation
The world is changing rapidly. Every generation brings new questions, experiences and perspectives on faith. If we want to help children and young people explore Jesus in meaningful ways, we need to keep listening, learning and responding.
That's why we invest in research. We explore the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the lives of children and young people, and we share what we're learning to help churches, parents, schools and ministry leaders engage more effectively.
Join our Research Hub to receive exclusive research insights, survey findings and opportunities to influence ministry with children and young people.
Faith for Gen Z
In 2020 we launched the Revealing Jesus mission framework, designed to help passionate individuals and churches walk alongside children and young people through each stage of their faith journey – Connect, Explore, Respond and Grow.
For many of Generation Z, traditional church just doesn't seem to be for them, or fit with their culture, so they don't stay part of it for long. But that doesn't mean they don't want to explore the difference that Jesus can make in their lives!
The Revealing Jesus mission framework has been built on extensive experience of working with unchurched children and young people, as well as research into the faith journeys of the 95 in this research called "Faith for Gen Z".
Generation Alpha – The Mission Field We Can’t Afford to Miss
Tech-savvy, globally aware, and spiritually searching – this is the most connected generation in history. They see themselves not as part of the problem, but as part of the solution. Yet they’re navigating mental health struggles, misinformation and a world more polarised than ever.
The opportunity to reach them is here. The time is now.
This isn’t just about the next generation – it’s about whether we’ll still have their attention at all.
Read the report to see what’s really going on with Generation Alpha.
Exploring Hybrid Mission Amongst Young People - Out Now!
Created in partnership with Dr Sarah Holmes at Liverpool Hope University, this two-stage research project, explores online hybrid ministry amongst the 95% of children and young people who don't go to church.
We heard from 155 young people (88 interviews and online surveys with a further 67 young people) and 120 youth leaders - investigating their experiences and perceptions of online and hybrid spaces, and their views on the most appropriate ways to explore the Christian faith.
Download the report and discover our findings.
Published Reports
As well as in-house research projects, we embrace opportunities to draw upon the experience and expertise of others who are equally passionate about seeing a difference in the lives of children and young people.
Together, we seek to discover the true reality for children, young people and mission.
Feel Good News Report
Influencers: Peer evangelism amongst young people in the UK
Published: 8 June 2022
Mission Possible Report
Published: July 2018
Hear about our latest research first!
If you're interested in being one of the first to hear about our research projects, sign up for FREE Mission Support from Scripture Union.
Designed to inspire, equip and empower you in mission to non-church-going children and young people, as soon as you sign up, you'll have access to:
- Exclusive training opportunities
- Monthly Mission Sparks – bitesize inspiration for mission
- The Revealing Jesus First Steps Guide
- New resources and content
- Findings from research into mission with the 95
- + much more