Austerity, inequality and the context of contemporary social work

Michael Lavalette

doi:10.1921/swssr.v19i1.1080

Authors

Michael Lavalette Dept of Social Work, Care and Justice, Liverpool Hope University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1921/swssr.v19i1.1080

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the contemporary context of austerity politics in the U.K. Austerity acts as a cover for welfare transformation and public sector spending reductions. The consequence has been to deepen inequality and make the lives of the poorest and marginalised much more difficult. Understanding these processes is important for social workers if we are to fully comprehend the difficulties placed on service users and their already complex lives.

Keywords: austerity, inequality, poverty, wealth

Author Biography

Michael Lavalette, Dept of Social Work, Care and Justice, Liverpool Hope University

Professor

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