ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts covered in the preceding chapters of this book. The book shows that the approach adopted by the Breadline Britain surveys, the ‘consensual’ or ‘perceived’ direct measurement of poverty, produced reliable and valid scientific estimates on its extent. It highlights the high degree of consensus, across all divisions in society, on the necessity of a range of common possessions and activities. The book examines the controversial relationship between poverty and crime. It looks at the firmly established relationship between poverty and ill health. The book analyses the relationship between poverty and mental health. It also looks at the inter-relationships between poverty, debt and state benefits. The book examines the important role that Local Government Services can play in ameliorating the effects of poverty. It presents a rather disappointing message on the re-distributional impact of local public services, particularly in relation to poorest households.
