"It seems that they believe they have a say in how our children are raised, simply because they help us pay nursery fees and help ferry the kids about when we need to work. We can't afford to turn down their help but equally don't want to be in thrall to their whims."

Tom Bloom, a 27-year-old digital designer, has set himself the challenge of buying a one-bedroom flat in London by the time he turns 30, but is he saving enough and will he even qualify for a mortgage?