Finding solutions for tackling poverty

Today’s research impact case study looks at Glasgow Caledonian University’s work to alleviate poverty. 

Established in 2018, the Scottish Poverty and Inequality Research Unit (SPIRU) is an interdisciplinary research group based at Glasgow Caledonian University. It works in partnership with the Poverty Alliance and other stakeholders to investigate and develop effective responses to poverty and inequality in Scotland and beyond. Wherever possible, the Unit works with people who have direct experience of poverty and the consequences of inequality.

Research by SPIRU has made a significant contribution to shaping the national development and local delivery of child poverty policy in Scotland. Its research into the implementation of the 2010 Child Poverty Act and the effects of austerity upon local authorities and lower income households in Scotland informed the 2017 Child Poverty (Scotland) Act. SPIRU was invited to join the Local Child Poverty Co-ordination Group, with its research and advice shaping the annual Local Child Poverty Action Reports produced by Scottish local authorities.

Since 2000, GCU’s WiSE Centre for Economic Justice has produced research on the adoption and implementation of gender and equalities budget analysis. From an initial focus on the Scottish Government as an early pioneer amongst devolved governments, this research has directly impacted on the Equality Budget Statement budgetary processes in Scotland and has had further impacts at both UK and international level.