The struggle to make ends meet on an inadequate income, both in and out of work, is one of the main reasons people request help from SVP. Over-indebtedness and financial exclusion are also issues for people on low income that we are highlighting.
Our policy and advocacy work draws on the detailed analysis of the Vincentian MESL Research Centre. This research details the amount of income needed for different household types to enable them to afford their minimum essential needs. For further information see www.budgeting.ie .
We believe everyone should have sufficient income to live with dignity. We campaign for the introduction of a Living Wage and a strong social protection system so that we can prevent poverty and deprivation from happening in the first place. We are also seeking to ensure people on low incomes have access to affordable credit and inclusion financial services.