Agency and empowerment to ‘level up’

People in poverty should be helped to overcome a 'psychologically based poverty trap', according to a new briefing paper published by the Society. It urges policymakers to develop policies that will help 'level up' the ability of those living in poverty to change their situation, namely by empowering people and giving them agency. This means backing a real living wage, say psychologists with the publication of From poverty to flourishing: Agency and empowerment.

The paper also highlights the link between children going hungry, poor educational attainment and subsequent life chances. It adds that as well as individuals benefiting, this approach is a 'constructive and beneficial response for society as a whole'.