Blog

Welcome to the JRF blog, where our experts comment on topical social issues and new research on the themes of poverty, place and ageing society. We encourage comments and discussion – please read our comments policy.

Help me find out how to address the UK care crisis

by John Kennedy

The issues affecting care homes never seem to change. Why not? Today, John Kennedy launches a year-long inquiry into how to make care work.

#BeveridgeRebooted: why we need a new deal for the mistrusted welfare system

by Julia Unwin

A New Statesman essay suggests welfare reform could damage the UK’s economic prospects. We need a new welfare system that fits the modern needs of both the economy and society, says Julia Unwin.

Worklessness is driven by decayed job markets, not the people out of work

by Chris Goulden

The main driver of worklessness in "welfare ghettos" is decayed job markets, not the attitudes of the people, says Chris Goulden, in response to a press release out today.

Fighting loneliness as a caring daughter, mother and grandmother

by Tracey Robbins

It’s possible to feel lonely despite being in constant company. Tracey Robbins explains, from her personal experience, the concept of the Sandwich Generation.

Social security isn’t just for the unemployed – 4.3 million working families get benefits too

by Tom MacInnes

New research by the New Policy Institute shows how many working families are in receipt of benefits. Here, Tom MacInnes discusses the main findings.

Welfare reform won’t work without more jobs, better pay and skills

by James McCormick

Practical responses are needed to address fear, panic, despair and debt in disadvantaged communities, says Jim McCormick.

We need a plan to care for our ageing society

by John Kennedy

Our care system is based on the needs of a society that no longer exists – we need a very different plan for a very different society, says John Kennedy.

How can we tackle inequality in British cities?

by Paul Sissons

A new report today reveals the most unequal cities in the UK. Dr Paul Sissons of the Work Foundation looks at what can be done to close the gap.

#Antipoverty debate needs to be conducted with the right language

by Tony Stoller

The debate around poverty has been hijacked by provocative rhetoric. This is dangerous, argues Tony Stoller, because the right words are needed to overcome hardship.

An intergenerational approach is only way to prepare for an ageing population

by Claire Turner

When most people think ‘ageing’ they think older people. But in order to explore the implications of an ageing society a cross-generational approach is much more helpful, says Claire Turner.