Poverty Debate

Plans to move 600,000 households off welfare and into work will be unveiled today (September 16) in a major new report from the think-tank set up by the former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith.

The 370-page report, the most far-reaching review of the welfare system in 60 years, estimates that the shake-up will boost the incomes of the lowest paid by nearly £5 billion.

The Centre for Crime and Justice Studies is for the third year launching the Award in memory of Una Padel.

It will be an opportunity to ensure that Una’s dedication, work and commitment continue to encourage and inspire practitioners in the field. the award is in aid of acknowledging such outstanding and previously unrecognised contributions to social justice. It also seeks to ensure that Una’s values of dedication and commitment beyond the call of duty will continue to encourage and inspire others.

To find out more download the flyer, click here:

Or visit the website here

Tories Tackle Social Mobility – NewMajority.com – 10/7/09

Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith has a solution to the Tories’ lack of electoral victory, it is argued on NewMajority.com. As the founder of the Centre for Social Justice, Iain Duncan Smith has formulated a notion of “compassionate conservatism” that Cameron looks to use as part of his election campaign. Smith argues that the largest impediment to Tory success is that voters don’t see Conservatives as “caring”.

To read the article in full, click here

This week, the Scottish Government published their strategy for tackling alcohol abuse. Central to this is the proposal to establish a minimum price per unit of alcohol. This would be accompanied by a ban on ‘irresponsible promotions’ and legislating for a Social Responsibility Fee.

Such pro-activity should be commended. Addiction – both drug and alcohol – is a key driver of poverty. It is also a key driver of crime, violence and anti-social behaviour. Directly and indirectly, it ruins lives, families and communities.