Destitution In The UK
A damning new report reveals that, here in the UK in the 21st century, one and a quarter MILLION people each year can’t afford the basic essentials needed to eat, keep clean, and stay warm and dry.
Around a third (400,000) had slept rough, begged or accessed a service intended to support complex needs such as substance misuse, mental ill health and contact with the Criminal Justice System.
The report, Destitution In The UK, is published by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and is based on detailed research carried out by Heriot-Watt University. It reveals that, even though there are few straightforward reasons for why people become destitute, income (or lack of it) obviously plays a major role.
The researchers found that delays or interruptions to benefits, as well as debt and arrears payments, was the main cause. But, for those with the most complex needs, being unable to afford life’s basics is often the result of a more complex web of factors, including relationship breakdown and domestic violence.
Those with more complex needs experience longer periods of destitution and sometimes have no money for months or even years. This is also true for migrants, particularly those claiming asylum. People in these situations can become incredibly isolated and, lacking friends or a network of support, become reliant on benefits, voluntary services and sometimes begging.
The study found that most people who are fit for work see employment as the best route out of destitution. However, for most, the immediate challenge is resolving issues with their benefit claims and, particularly for those with the most complex needs, finding appropriate accommodation and support to address the wider issues in their lives. Even those who are able to improve their situation remained vulnerable to sudden changes in circumstances, such as their benefit entitlements.
The research is invaluable in highlighting both the scale of the problem, and the complexity of the response that’s needed. There are already good examples of how local areas can help people address the long-term issues that they face – but this report shows how much more work there is to do.
The full report can be downloaded at www.jrf.org.uk
