Policy Hub
Published on 12 May 2009 by the Department for Work and Pensions, this desk-based research reviews the evidence on the impact of the recessions of the early 1970s, 1980s and 1990s on the PSA 8 (indicator 2) disadvantaged groups.
Such groups include disabled people, ethnic minorities, lone parents, people aged 50 and over, the 15% lowest qualified, and those living in the most deprived local authority wards, as well as ex-offenders and the self-employed.
The public’s attitudes towards unemployment and unemployed people are considered in some detail given that they can shape what are perceived of as politically feasible policies, and any resulting increase in social exclusion for these groups during a recession risks the development of prejudice. In addition, the publication looks at how rising unemployment creates a demand for other public services, notably social care.
The review draws upon a variety of contemporary sources to identify key trends and findings and proposes a number of key policy recommendations.
Review of evidence on the impact of economic downturn on disadvantaged groups (PDF)