Poverty in the UK is a big problem
Over 13 million people live in poverty – that's one in five – a figure that is higher than almost any other EU country.
What charities help poverty in the UK?
There are many UK charities that are fighting to end poverty and each one tends to have a slightly different focus.
Some charities help poverty by tackling homelessness in the UK, some are dedicated to helping children in poverty, and some provide relief aid and support to vulnerable people in developing countries.
Shelter is an example of a charity trying to end poverty in the UK. They try to ensure everyone in the UK has a home by providing expert housing advice and information, and campaigning for more affordable housing.
Poor children are less likely to get the food, healthcare and access to education that they need to flourish. In developing countries, children living in poverty are those most likely to die in childhood from preventable diseases.
Which charities are working to end child poverty in the United Kingdom?
Charities trying to end child poverty include World Vision, Barnados and Save the Children. In the UK, Barnados provides over 200 children's services for the poorest children and their families. Overseas, World Vision run child sponsorship programmes to raise vital funds to feed, educate and clothe children in the poorest countries of the world.
Oxfam is an example of a charity that works all over the world to provide poverty aid to developing countries, and relief aid to communities affected by natural disasters or conflict. For example, in 2004 Oxfam provided tsunami relief in the form of clean drinking water, temporary shelter and toilets to the hundreds of thousands of people affected– many of whom were already living in poverty.
African poverty is one of the biggest problems and UK charities like Send A Cow are trying to address this by teaching African farmers sustainable and effective farming methods and providing the livestock and equipment they need.
