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Report
Deep poverty and destitution
Neighbourhoods and communities
Wealth, funding and investment practice

Tackling the systemic causes of poverty

This paper outlines the New Economics approach to reducing poverty, and is one of three studies from different think tanks contributing ideas to the development of JRF’s anti-poverty strategy for the UK.

Written by:
Anna Coote, Tony Greenham, Helen Kersley and Rachel Lawrence
Date published:

It suggests a multi-dimensional approach that reflects the complexity of poverty dynamics and tackles the underlying causes, rather than just the symptoms of poverty. It proposes that:

  • poverty should be tackled through universal childcare, a decent wage structure, and taxation;
  • the financial system should be managed so it does not increase inequality;
  • the distribution of power is as important as the distribution of financial resources;
  • strong local economies are needed, linking national and local resources, institutions and strategies.
Food bank worker sorting a bread delivery.

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