The joint research from University of Staffordshire in collaboration with Citizens Advice Staffordshire North and Stoke-on-Trent (CASNS) exposes the impacts of recent economic and policy changes, as well as the cost-of-living crisis.
It is the latest in a series of joint reports by the University and Citizens Advice on the poverty crisis in the city. This update highlights deeper and more widespread issues of individuals and families struggling to survive.
As well as using the latest data sources, anonymised case studies were analysed to capture the lived experiences of Citizens Advice clients affected by cuts to the welfare system.
Lead researcher Professor David Etherington, from University of Staffordshire, said: “We are heading towards a humanitarian crisis. The cost-of-living for many people in Stoke-on-Trent means that they are struggling to meet their basic needs and pay their bills.
“What we are seeing is more people falling deeper into debt. Food aid has become the main source of welfare support for many people, with the demand on foodbanks now at unprecedented levels.”
25.9% of the population of Stoke-on-Trent have no educational qualifications on leaving school.
Co-author Ryan Fox, from University of Staffordshire, added: “The number of young people not in employment, education or training (NEET) is a challenge.
“In my view, there is further support and funding needed to address this situation for Young People in Stoke-on-Trent and across the wider region. In Stoke-on-Trent, funding and support have been cut significantly, which only serves to undermine efforts to address this challenge.”
Health funding gaps fall more heavily on those living in the most deprived areas such as Stoke-on-Trent. 10.4% of the population in city, aged 16 and over, is entitled to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and the report authors highlight that Government cuts to the service will have a detrimental impact on people with long term health conditions.
It is estimated that the total impact of welfare reforms from 2010 to 2021 amounts to an annual £141 million cut in benefit for Stoke-on-Trent, involving an annual financial loss per working age adult of £880.
As a consequence, the report warns advice services in Stoke-on-Trent are fully stretched and are in danger of being overwhelmed. The research also discusses the potential impact of changes to employment rights – such as the rule of claiming unfair dismissal from day one in employment.
Craig Browne, CEO of Citizens Advice Staffordshire North & Stoke-on-Trent, said: “We are witnessing an unprecedented increase in demand for advice services and debt enquiries rank highest, which is not surprising because of the continual problems that people face in negotiating and dealing with the benefit system to maximise income to have a standard of income that means basic necessities can be met. The roll out of the new employment rights policy will mean the need for advice will increase significantly.”
Read the full report – How Austerity and the Cost of Living is Continuing to Drive Poverty and Destitution in Stoke- on-Trent.