Figures that describe London as ‘wealthy’ mask the reality for a large proportion of those living in the capital.
Whilst some London boroughs are among the wealthiest places in England, London has an even greater share of the most deprived places too.
In London, wealth and deprivation often sit side-by-side.
The richest 10% of households are earning around 11 times what the poorest 10% earn. This is double the inequality seen across the rest of the UK.
The weekly income (after housing costs) of the poorest 10% in London is 39% lower than the poorest 10% across the rest of the UK.
The pressures of higher housing and living costs than the rest of England, as well as insecure work, higher air pollution and lower access to green space, result in worse health outcomes and reduced capacity to engage in preventative behaviours.
These systemic factors make poverty in London persistent.
Decisions based on high level, London overall, figures risk overlooking those with the greatest need.
