Shocking findings on inequality demand urgent attention

The report, An Anatomy of Economic Inequality in the UK, was commissioned by the Government. It shows that the richest 10% of the population are now more than 100 times as wealthy as the poorest 10% of society. Income inequality is at its highest level since soon after World War II, and higher than in other industrialised countries. The report highlights particularly the lifelong negative impact that being born poor, and into a disadvantaged social class, has on a child.

Church Action on Poverty Coordinator Niall Cooper commented: “These shocking findings demand urgent attention, and should be a wake-up call to churches and political parties alike. They are an indictment not just of politicians, but of our failure as a society to look after the poorest and the most vulnerable. The gospel message is clear - this level of inequality, and the damage it does to families, communities and the nation as a whole, is contrary to God's will.
“As the General Election comes ever closer, it is our responsibility as Christians to speak out. We must challenge politicians - and the general public - to make narrowing the gap between rich and poor one of the top priorities for the next government.”

Churches can act now by taking part in Poverty & Homelessness Action Week, which begins on 30 January. The theme this year is ‘Enough For All’. Churches everywhere will be tackling poverty and inequality by sharing out the resources in their communities more fairly. Visit www.actionweek.org.uk for free resources and ideas, including the inspirational booklet 12 Baskets.

Individual Christians can also help tackle UK inequality by joining Church Action on Poverty’s ‘Close The Gap’ network. Sign up to receive monthly emails, with simple actions you can take online to speak out for a fairer society.