New poverty report shows London and low-income communities disproportionally affected by COVID-19

The impacts of COVID-19 have particularly hit London as well as individuals, families and communities that were already struggling the most prior to the pandemic, according to figures released this week in London’s Poverty Profile report.  

Commissioned every year by Trust for London and WPI Economics, London’s Poverty Profile provides evidence and insight on poverty and inequality in London. This year’s report looked at the distribution of health impacts, as well as considering how work, living standards and wellbeing have been impacted.

It shows that London has been hit particularly hard, both in terms of citizens’ health and its economy, compared to other parts of England. It also reveals that those living on the lowest incomes in the Capital have been disproportionally affected.

As we emerge from the crisis, we must all work together to ensure that no one has to live a life of poverty, and that social and economic prosperity is shared more equitably. More needs to be done to tackle systematic disadvantage faced by certain groups in our city.

Bharat Mehta, Chief Executive at Trust for London