In-work poverty in the recession

Article

The share of poor households accounted for by working households has been increasing in the UK over the last decade, with more than half of poor children living in working households before the recession.

Analysts had thought that this trend might be reversed by the recession, as low earners lost their jobs and swapped in-work poverty for workless poverty. However, our analysis shows that this had not happened by March 2009 and that in-work poverty continues to account for a rising share of poverty. This creates a key challenge for the Coalition government as it sets out its plans for welfare reform and develops its child poverty strategy.

This note presents new data explaining what has happened to in-work poverty since the recession began, using newly released data covering the period April 2008 to March 2009.

Related items

  1. A group of young women laughing sitting around a cafe table

    Making space: Meeting the needs of young women and girls through Young Futures

    This is a critical moment for the government’s delivery of Young Futures Hubs, which can transform outcomes for young women and girls. 
  2. Doctor with patient for consultation, medical advice or procedure at clinic

    Building the foundations for transformation in the NHS

    The government has published a bold 10-year plan to transform England’s health system which, if fully delivered, will make the NHS of tomorrow look radically different from today’s service. 
  3. A huge overflowing recycling bin full of discarded empty bottles of alcoholic drinks

    Taking stock: Counting the economic costs of alcohol harm

    Alcohol consumption across the UK is increasing. Government and employers must act to address the health risks.