Glasgow Social Sciences Hub

Aberlour, a charity dedicated to supporting children and families, has recently published a compelling report highlighting the detrimental impact of public debt on low-income families in Scotland. The report, commissioned by the charity, sheds light on the consequences of public debt, such as Council tax and rent arrears, which exacerbate poverty and effectively trap families in a cycle of financial hardship.

Conducted as part of a broader research project on public debt, the study was carried out by Professor Morag Treanor of the University of Glasgow. Professor Treanor focused on exploring the effects of public debt, specifically school meal debt and arrears faced by low-income families receiving Universal Credit. The findings of the qualitative research emphasise the alarming state of debt crisis currently experienced by these vulnerable families.

Professor Treanor's research reveals that a significant number of low-income families struggle to make ends meet, despite working hard to provide for themselves and their children. Insufficient income levels force many families to resort to taking on debt simply to meet their basic needs and ensure survival. This precarious situation paints a distressing picture of the challenges faced by families already grappling with financial instability.

Professor Morag Treanor from the University of Glasgow said: “Public debt is pulling people further into poverty and holding them there. On top, the cost of living crisis is stopping families from helping each other – poverty is becoming wider and deeper. Action is needed to prevent poverty becoming endemic in Scotland.”

Read the full report on the Aberlour website