How Can Parents Escape From Recurrent Poverty?

This report details the reasons behind the low-pay/no-pay cycle
and recurrent poverty among disadvantaged parents.

This policy area is particularly important as unemployment rises. The
report used qualitative interviews and focus groups with parents and
practitioners, and survey analysis.

The report:
• Examines how the birth of a child or a relationship breakdown,
combined with a decrease in household income, can lead many
into poverty.

• Discusses how parents remain in the low-pay/no-pay cycle due
to: low-pay and lack of job flexibility; lack of suitable childcare;
the operation and levels of benefits and tax credits; debt, low
confidence and obstacles to education.

• Analyses a large survey which found mothers were less likely
to get work if they lacked qualifications; had been out of paid
employment for longer; had more or younger children; were under
19 or over 45.

• Explores how escaping poverty and the low-pay/no-pay cycle
requires better paid jobs, more suitable and affordable childcare,
a more responsive benefit and tax credit system and effective
holistic support.