Poverty is a complex issue, and it's often misunderstood.
The word can trigger stereotypes and a sense of “otherness.” It can feel detached from everyday life, something that happens to someone else.
But in Britain in 2025, poverty is all around us. In our capital city, more than two million people are living in poverty.
This resource aims to demystify the issue. What exactly is poverty? What does it mean to experience it in London today? And what causes it?
It’s organised into six sections - explore them below.
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London in context
Explore London’s population, how it’s changing and how the city differs from the rest of the country.
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What is poverty?
Explore what it means to be in poverty, and how it's measured.
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How common is poverty in London?
Looking at the prevalence of poverty in London and how this is changing
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Who is in poverty in London?
Exploring which demographics are more likely to be in poverty.
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What causes poverty in London?
The key drivers of high levels of poverty in London and the UK.
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What does it mean to live in poverty?
The different ways poverty affects your life.