Bevan Foundation discusses work and poverty

Steffan Evans from the Bevan Foundation appeared on S4C’s Newyddion programme and BBC Wales Today to discuss poverty and work

In light of the pandemic’s devastating impact on the economy scheme that support people back into work are set to become more important than ever over the next few months and years. But speaking on S4C’s Newyddion programme and the BBC’s Wales Today, Steffan Evans from the Bevan Foundation argued that such scheme alone can not solve poverty given the scale of the problem. He said:

“I think these projects can have a positive impact on individuals. Obviously if you benefit from these schemes you are going to have opportunities that you may not have otherwise.

But of course, the scale of the problem facing us in Wales – where a quarter of the population are living in poverty – mean that these schemes are only going to lift a small number out of poverty compared to that much larger number.

Also, these schemes take it for granted that the problem is a lack of skills by individuals rather than a lack of available quality jobs in our community.”

You can watch the interview back on BBC Iplayer or read more on the BBC Cymru Fyw website.