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4 Million UK Households Struggle Below Minimum Living Standard

2/18/2026

37 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

More than four million working UK households cannot afford a decent standard of living, per Centre for Research in Social Policy.
In 2023/24, 68.5% of households were below the minimum income standard, up from 2008/09.
The minimum income standard is £30,500 for a single person and £74,000 for a couple with two children.
Wages have not kept pace with rising living costs, and Elaine Robinson says work alone is insufficient.

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Story summary

More than four million working UK households cannot afford a decent standard of living, per Centre for Research in Social Policy.
In 2023/24, 68.5% of households were below the minimum income standard, up from 2008/09.
The minimum income standard is £30,500 for a single person and £74,000 for a couple with two children.
Wages have not kept pace with rising living costs, and Elaine Robinson says work alone is insufficient.