Material deprivation – the share of individuals in households unable to afford two or more items from a list of ten essentials – rose from 17.7% in 2022 to 20.1% in 2023 for those aged under 18
230,000 children are currently estimated to experience material deprivation: an increase of almost 30,000 since 2022. The rise comes amidst a 3% real (inflation-adjusted) decline in the average disposable income of households with children.
In contrast, material deprivation fell over the same period from 11.7% to 9.8% for those aged 65+. This group also saw their average real disposable incomes rise by 3%, boosted by a rise in income from work and higher employment rates.
These are among the key findings of new ESRI research published today in partnership with Community Foundation Ireland, using the latest data from the CSO’s Survey of Incomes and Living Conditions (SILC).
Other key findings include:
Dr Barra Roantree, Director of the joint ESRI-TCD MSc in Economic Policy at Trinity College Dublin and a co-author of the report said:
“The findings in this report suggest additional policy measures – such as a second tier of child benefit targeted at low-income families – may need to be considered if Government commitments to reduce rates of child poverty and material deprivation are to be achieved.”
Dr Helen Russell, a Research Professor at the ESRI and co-author of the report said:
“Poverty has a depressing effect on both social and civic participation. If individuals feel excluded from society and that their voices are not heard this undermines social trust and cohesion. It is important that the social infrastructure of disadvantaged communities is supported, for example through community development programmes and investment in civic amenities that promote social contact.”
Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland who supported the research added:
“Community Foundation Ireland has a network of 5,000 voluntary, community and charitable partners. The challenges identified in this research reflects the reality many face on the ground every day, and highlights the importance of policy decisions which promote inclusion and equality for all.”