Public attitudes towards domestic poverty
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Members' notes
RobinThe long-term buoyancy of the UK economy and the prosperity enjoyed by many, has led to the general public becoming less supportive of those living in domestic poverty, and to many not recognising domestic poverty as a legitimate issue. However, nearly one fifth of the population still live in ‘relative’ poverty. The population tend to be more concerned about inequality (gaps between rich and poor) than about poverty.In addition, a significant proportion of people view the welfare state as a ‘club’ to which people belong, and that it is wrong for people to benefit from services which they have not helped pay for.
What are the implications?
- Further global interconnectedness is likely to lead to increased awareness of poverty abroad which may mean attitudes towards poverty in the UK become even less sympathetic.
- As increased global migration and an ageing population place even greater demands on the welfare state in the future, there may be even greater support for a system of benefits that are awarded to those who have earned them through the tax system.
- Reduction of welfare provisions and services may lead to higher levels of poverty and inequality, social fragmentation, marginalisation and unrest.
- VCOs may need to consider their place and role in helping to create a just and equal civil society.
- Decreased support for public services targeted at those in poverty may lead to an increase in the role of the VCS in public service delivery as VCOs pick up the pieces from a slimmed down welfare state.
- If the ‘club’ mentality spreads to attitudes towards charitable or corporate giving, it could mean less support for already marginalised groups of people.
- An increased focus on a society of self-reliance and personal responsibility.
- Decreased support for domestic poverty may also impact on organisations that work in these areas; in terms of numbers of volunteers and support for campaigns.
Moving forward
- Does your organisation have a role to play in addressing inequality and giving a voice to marginalised communities and groups?
- Can you provide activities that contribute to a cohesive and inclusive society?
- How can your organisation communicate differently about poverty in accordance with people’s shifting attitudes? Might communication strategies focusing on quality of life and equality of opportunity be more successful in future?
Want to know more?
Attitudes to Poverty: Findings from the British Social Attitudes Survey
Published by: Joseph Rowntree Foundation – a think tank
Date: 2007
Format: PDF
What is it?
A report on the results of the British Social Attitudes survey. It gives a summary of common attitudes, as well as profiling by demographic categories, such as age and education.
How useful is this?
The commentary is useful, giving a useful interpretation of the survey findings. Core statistics are provided and the report’s conclusions are based on appropriate statistical analyses.
Other comments:
Public Attitudes to Child Poverty
Published by: Department of Work and Pensions – a Government department
Date: 2008
Format: PDF
What is it?
A research summary of a survey on attitudes to poverty. The survey examined attitudes on levels of general and child poverty, on the reasons behind poverty; benefits; low-pay income; and who is responsible for poverty.
How useful is this?
As a snapshot of attitudes, this report is a helpful resource. The survey is based on a sample of 1500 UK adults. The analysis includes statistical significance testing, which takes the report beyond the merely descriptive.
Other comments:
Working out of poverty: A study of the low-paid and the ‘working poor’
Published by: Institute for Public policy Research – a left-of-centre think tank
Date: January 2008
Format: PDF
What is it?
This is a report focused on the working poor. It provides background data as well as a discussion of relevant policy. In particular, it examines: the context of low pay; recommendations on minimum wage; the link between low pay and poverty; and Tax Credits.
How useful is this?
This is focused more on poverty itself, rather than attitudes. However, it provides data and a wide-ranging discussion of working poverty as well as a useful list of references for further reading.
Other comments:
Discuss
How will this affect your organisation? Have you considered it during your strategic planning? Can you share any interesting relevant links?
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