A former pupil of Oakham school is undertaking a study about changing rural communities for his dissertation, and needs your feedback.

In the anonymous study, Philip is researching the 'gentrification' of rural areas.

Gentrification is the process whereby the character of a poor urban area is changed by wealthier people moving in, improving housing, and attracting new businesses, often displacing current inhabitants in the process.

Philip said: "I live locally and used to attend Oakham School. I am currently at University in Edinburgh, writing my dissertation on changing rural communities.

I am currently writing my dissertation on rural communities like Rutland. As a part of this, I am conducting an anonymous study into rural communities that have recently experienced gentrification, and the impacts on the rural way of life.

"Gentrification is when the characteristics of a neighbourhood change, due to various factors - such as the influx of new residents, changing services, and changing land uses, to list a few. I am interested in the experiences of neighbourhood change you have experienced since living in your local area. 

"This questionnaire is open to all, and will take 15 minutes of your time. This questionnaire is a qualitative study, meaning the more you say, in terms of explanations and examples, the better, and remember this is an anonymous study (so don't hold back).

"If you do not feel comfortable answering any questions, please don't, but similarly, if you feel I have missed something, please express how you feel in the relevant section.

"Lastly, if you would like to conduct a follow-up interview if you feel you have more to say, then please leave your number or a form of contact in the final section and I will be in touch."

Can you help Philip?

Find and fill in the anonymous survey here.