‍

In-work poverty has been rising steadily in the UK for nearly two decades and currently affects roughly 18% of the UK working population. A survey of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) members and advisers conducted over the past year reveals that in-work poverty is a complex issue which disproportionately affects part-time workers, single-parent families, and those in precarious or low-wage sectors like hospitality, administration and caring and leisure support services. Work is often described as the best route out of poverty, however, the SVP's research shows that this is increasingly too simplistic.

The group most impacted by in work poverty are households with children, with the cost of household bills, low pay, childcare and caring responsibilities, health issues, the cost of housing and insecure work significant contributing factors. For many families, their ability to work more, or find alternative or better paid work, is severely constrained by external factors such as lack of secure work, insufficient hours, and/or personal circumstances such as caring responsibilities. Highlighting the range of challenges, one survey respondent said:

‍

“Many [people] are working multiple part-time jobs but still struggle to make ends meet due to low wages and limited hours... They often face difficulties affording basic essentials like food, heating, and clothing, and may fall behind on bills. Mental health issues, such as stress and anxiety, are also common due to the financial strain. Additionally, the rising costs of living and childcare, housing, and everyday living expenses create barriers, making it even harder to break the cycle of poverty. These families frequently rely on community or charitable support such as food banks to get by."

‍

Click below to read the SVP's report and find out more.