The UK is wealthy, in terms of relative disposable incomes, median household incomes and the relative price of goods and services. But child poverty rates here, and child deprivation, are comparatively higher than in most rich countries in the European Union and OECD. Why is the UK’s initial child poverty rate before cash transfers in benefits and tax credits among the very highest in Europe? What role are these transfers playing to reduce child poverty? And what can we learn from other countries about reducing child poverty?
On 1 October, energy bills for a typical household were due to rise to £3,549 a year, nearly treble the cost a year before. The cost was due to jump again in January 2023. But in September the government announced that the average bill would be capped at £2,500 a year for the next two years. What impact will this have on fuel poverty, defined as spending more than 10 per cent of net income on fuel? How many households are spending even greater proportions of their income on fuel? And who will be worst affected by rising prices?
