UK Poverty Hits 13.4 Million in 2024-25, Data Shows

New official statistics released by the UK Department for Work and Pensions and the Scottish Government reveal persistent challenges with poverty across the United Kingdom, with revised methodologies showing lower numbers than previously estimated but still affecting millions, particularly children and pensioners. The data, covering the period up to March 2025, indicate that 13.4 million people in the UK, or 20 percent of the population, lived in relative poverty after housing costs in the year to 2024-25, an increase of about half a million from the prior year.

Relative poverty is defined as household income below 60 percent of the UK median. The figures mark the first use of an improved calculation method, which links survey responses to administrative records on benefits and tax credits. This adjustment addresses underreporting in past surveys and revises estimates downward for recent years. For instance, the number of people in poverty for 2023-24 dropped from an earlier figure of 14.25 million to 12.93 million. Users are advised to exercise caution in comparing trends due to these changes, with further refinements planned.

Child poverty remains a key concern, affecting an...