Poverty Zero

Big Issue vendor holds sign that reads we demand an end to poverty

Poverty Zero

Make poverty reduction a legal requirement for every UK government

Email your mp

Achieving Poverty Zero should be more than just a priority – it should be law.

Right now, 3.8 million people are living in destitution, the most extreme form of poverty. They are struggling to keep themselves warm, fed and clothed. And this number is rising – destitution has more than doubled in the last 7 years. When it comes to tackling poverty, business as usual isn’t working.

We have a plan to hold politicians to their promises on poverty once and for all. A Poverty Zero law would require governments to set poverty reductions targets, and hold them legally accountable to those commitments.

Big Issue vendor holds a sign that reads why do 3.8 million people live in destitution?

Big Issue vendor stands in front of the houses of parliament

Ask your MP to work with us to end extreme poverty

You can support Poverty Zero by emailing your MP. We’re calling on MPs to support us in by Parliament by becoming End Poverty Champions.

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Too often, governments make claims about poverty reduction and cash them in for political capital, without ever putting their words into practice.

A Poverty Zero law is the solution. As with Net Zero, governments would have to publish a plan to meet their poverty reduction targets, and if the plan was going to fall short, a court could legally require them to write a better one.

Group of big issue vendors and campaigners gathered holding signs calling for an end to poverty

Group of 4 big issue vendors and staff member stand arm in arm, two of them have raised fists

Poverty Zero is also a chance to push governments to address the root causes of poverty. Administrations mapping out how to meet targets set for decades into the future will reach for sustainable solutions, rather than plastering over the cracks to balance the books before the next budget.

Poverty Zero would allow each government to set their own targets. We believe our government should aim to eradicate destitution by 2035. In 2024, nobody should be unable to keep themselves warm, dry and fed.

Another way to get involved

Are you outraged that 3.8 million people in the UK live in extreme poverty? Become a Big Issue member and enable us to unlock opportunities for millions of vulnerable people affected by poverty.

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