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Cost of living survey

This survey supports efforts on diversity, inclusion, and accessibility by collecting data on trainees’ financial challenges.


It helps implement the Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, promotes equal access, and ensures all trainees can have an enriching experience, while contributing to a more diverse and trusted European Commission.

Report - O24 Cost of living survey

Blue Book trainees have been advocating for equal access and diversity in the programme, and facilitating an inclusive traineeship experience over the last years.

 

As part of ECTA, coordinators and subcommittees committed to diversity and inclusion have organized events or shared cultural recommendations to create an inclusive atmosphere for all trainees, without distinctions

Two Diversity & Inclusion subcommittees have further run surveys to better understand the financial reality of Blue Book trainees.

The ECTA Diversity and Inclusion subcommittee of the March 2024 cohort ran a survey on the cost of living for the first time and concluded that there are some major concerns related to the financial situation of trainees.

In light of the Cost of Living Survey March 2024, the October 2025 cohort decided to run another iteration of the survey, with the objective to test whether the concerns from the March 2024 results would also be observed in their cohort.

Key findings:

💸 High reliance on additional income (family, savings, side jobs).

🏠 General inability of the grant to cover monthly expenses.

🍽️ Financial limitations shape food choices, including how several trainees skip meals to save money.

😰 Widespread financial stress, especially among those from lower-income backgrounds.

 

Implications:

⚠️ The current grant isn’t aligned with trainees’ cost of living.

⚠️ Financial strain puts many trainees’ well-being at risk.

⚠️ The structure may limit diversity and equal access to the programme.

 

What we propose to the Traineeship Office and wider Commission:

📈 Continuous monitoring and transparency on financial well-being and access.

🏠 Regularly adjust the grant to reflect real living costs.

🤝 Introduce support measures to improve well-being for all trainees.

Read the full report below:

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