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The ´óÏó´«Ã½ Wales Coal House project beginning this week will see three families discovering the realities of a 1920s lifestyle without the benefit of hot running water, central heating, washing machines - to say nothing of televisions, mobile phones or computers.

We take such technology for granted, and understandably, children do so especially. They also very often assume that the latest gizmo, the most fashionable accessory, is essential to their existence, and in their appeals to their parents' wallets, they can make their desires in the matter very plain.

Recent research confirms long-held beliefs that it's youngsters who are most susceptible to a culture of consumerism, and the Welsh-based charity Care For The Family has just launched the 'pester power' project. It's designed to help parents cope with increasing commercial pressures.

But how much are children really at risk from such pressures; who's influencing them and how, and how should parents deal with the situation?

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Coal House

Also in the programme, Roy Jenkins hears about a new initiative described as "a spiritual path for our time". Organised by the Religious Society of Friends, Quaker Quest offers a series of informal presentations and workshops across the UK during October and November designed to answer questions about who the Quakers are and what they believe.