New report on poverty published today
Tuesday, 12 November 2002 22:24
A detailed study of 30 families living in poverty has shown that half of those interviewed are living in fear of people in their community.
The study, Against All Odds, commissioned by Combat Poverty, showed that one third of all children from low-income families suffers from poor health.
The average income was ¤124 per adult per week. Many households were in arrears on everyday expenses such as electricity, rent and telephone bills, each week.
The study found that money was very carefully managed and the needs of children were put first. Personal spending by adults was generally vetoed.
The report found concerns included the pressure of trying to fit in with peers and not being able to afford certain brands and labels.
The study also found that in five of the 30 households, the children were the only earners in the family.
The concerns of lone mothers were also addressed. They professed to feeling bullied and vulnerable within their own communities.
