in-work poverty
Tower Hamlets councils are currently discussing the widespread issue of in-work poverty, driven by high housing costs and low pay, following a recent assessment.
In September 2026, Tower Hamlets' Overview & Scrutiny Committee discussed an Anti-Poverty Rapid Needs Assessment, which found that 117,000 to 130,000 residents live in poverty. The assessment highlighted that 84% of households in poverty are working households, with high housing costs and low pay identified as key drivers.
The assessment, which will inform the borough's new Anti-Poverty Strategy, revealed that 40% of residents live in relative poverty after housing costs. Child poverty in Tower Hamlets almost doubles to over 50% when housing costs are considered, rising from 26.7%.
Key facts
- An estimated 117,000 to 130,000 residents in Tower Hamlets live in poverty. Source 1 Source 2
- 84% of households in poverty in Tower Hamlets are working households. Source
- 40% of Tower Hamlets residents live in relative poverty after housing costs. Source
- Child poverty in Tower Hamlets rises from 26.7% to over 50% after housing costs. Source
- The Anti-Poverty Rapid Needs Assessment was discussed in September 2026. Source 1 Source 2
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.