New Book: Poverty in Scotland
In a year in which Scotland’s constitutional future is to be decided, this latest in the Poverty in Scotland series provides an indispensable overview of the poverty and anti-poverty policies that form an increasingly important backdrop to the wider independence debate.
In a comprehensive, yet accessible, account of the state of poverty in Scotland, the main trends are highlighted and explained against the backdrop of ‘austerity’ and radical changes to the UK social security system.
As well as reviewing the impact of policy developments since the 2011 edition, the anti-poverty cases for both independence and the union are set out by leading advocates of the Yes and Better Together campaigns. Contributions from academics, policy experts and campaigners also look to the future in setting out principles for a more equitable Scotland – whatever the outcome of the referendum. And in this latest edition, a series of essays explores the ways other countries and regions have sought to tackle poverty and inequality within a variety of constitutional settlements and demands for further autonomy.
Drawing on the latest data, the book explores:
- how poverty in de?ned and measured
- what causes poverty in Scotland
- trends in the levels of poverty experienced and the impact of ‘austerity’
- the anti-poverty case for both independence and the union
- lessons on tackling poverty and inequality from across Europe and beyond
- key principles for tackling poverty including equality, inclusion, universalism, participation and redistribution.
Poverty in Scotland 2014 is an essential guide for anyone wanting to understand the poverty that forms the backdrop to the debate on Scotland’s future, and the policies that could address it in the years ahead. It is particularly useful for voluntary groups and community activists, policy makers and politicians, journalists, teachers, students and academics.
