Poverty is deepening and inequality is widening in the borough of Islington in north London, according to a new think-tank report. It says that after five years of economic uncertainty, public sector cuts and now 'welfare' reform, lower-income residents are under more pressure than ever.
The New Economics Foundation report looks at how life has changed for Islington’s lower-income residents in recent years, how people experience inequality, and what Islington might look like in 2020.
The authors identify broad areas for action in response. Local action could make a difference by investing in mental health and well-being initiatives, supporting initiatives to reduce social isolation, enabling lower-income families to access alternative forms of credit, and supporting young people to develop their capabilities. In the longer run there is a need to advocate change both within and beyond the borough. This could be approached on an issue-by-issue basis, including: affordable and decent quality housing; and secure and well paid jobs and apprenticeships.
Source: Joe Penny, Faiza Shaheen and Sarah Lyall, Distant Neighbours: Poverty and Inequality in Islington, New Economics Foundation
Links: Report | Summary