In the News Teaching Activity – Joseph Rowntree Foundation Report shows deepening poverty in the UK (Jan 2024)

Each year the JRF publish their report on poverty in the UK and the latest shows that poverty, including deep poverty has been rising.

The UK Poverty 2024 report from JRF reveals alarming levels of poverty, with 22% of the UK population affected (14.4 million people). Children remain the most impacted group, and, worryingly, poverty has deepened, with 4 in 10 experiencing 'very deep' poverty. The report highlights the persistent nature of poverty, disproportionately affecting larger families, minority ethnic groups, disabled individuals, informal carers, and those not in work. Regional variations exist, with the West Midlands having the highest poverty rate. The cost-of-living crisis has hit millions of households hard, and the future outlook remains deeply concerning. The JRF Report considers the causes of rise in poverty and suggests some policy solutions.

UK Poverty 2024: The essential guide to understanding poverty in the UK | Joseph Rowntree Foundation (jrf.org.uk)

1 Distinguish between absolute and relative poverty.

2 According to the JFR report, what are the causes of rising poverty in the UK?

3 Evaluate the poverty-reducing policies suggested by the JRF.