Source · Select Committees · Work and Pensions Committee
Recommendation 30
30
Paragraph: 113
Gaps in data on inescapable costs that households face, including those associated with disability and...
Conclusion
Gaps in data on inescapable costs that households face, including those associated with disability and debt, reduce the accuracy of data about who is in poverty. The Social Metrics Commission has shown leadership in highlighting these matters but is reliant on Government data. Making progress on addressing these gaps will require significant commitment from DWP, working with other departments.
Paragraph Reference:
113
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The Family Resources Survey (FRS) already collects information on: taxes and national insurance, domestic rates and council tax, child maintenance and child support payments, parental contributions to students living away from home, contributions to pension schemes, the cost of childcare and housing costs (including water rates, ground rent / service charges and structural insurance premiums for owner occupiers). The Government also plans to introduce new questions in the FRS on debt repayments once the questionnaire returns to face-to-face. The FRS also collects data about whether families can afford a list of goods and services as part of our material deprivation measures. However, the FRS lacks sufficient space to cover all costs comprehensively. The ONS runs a more extensive survey on costs families face: the Living Cost and Food Survey.