Multiple disadvantage in Scotland
About this study
This study explores the scale of multiple disadvantage among Scottish households using data from the Scottish Household Survey. We found
- 24,000 families experience severe, multiple disadvantage, including overcrowding, worklessness and poor health
- Glasgow is the worst affected area with 1 in 10 families severely disadvantaged
- Unmarried households with children are six times more likely to be severely disadvantaged than married households.
Potential Policy impact
Taking just an income-based approach to understanding poverty has come under increasing criticism, with multidimensional measures deemed to provide a fuller picture of disadvantage. This research helps to highlight the nature of disadvantage in Scotland and will contribute to better informed policy making at both a national and local level. The research provides a platform for Demos' forthcoming qualitative work by providing detailed knowledge of the challenges experienced by families suffering from multiple disadvantages.
Method
The research used secondary analysis of the data from the Scottish Household Survey (SHS), a large-scale survey of the characteristics, attitudes and behaviour of Scottish households and individuals on a range of issues, including social justice, housing and transport.
Find out more about Demos' a wider lens approach to understanding disadvantage.
- NatCen Social Research
- 35 Northampton Square, London, EC1V 0AX
- Charity no. 1091768
- info@natcen.ac.uk
