Family poverty and social exclusion with a special emphasis on children

Abstract

Since its setting up in 2001, the National Family Commission has always sought to give a priority to families in need. On the threshold of the 21st century, it is considered embarrassing to call oneself poor and many choose to lead a subjugated existence which is further exacerbated by the insidious process of social exclusion which, as Caragata (2001) points out, operates at “multiple and intersecting levels”. It is precisely because of this precarious situation that we felt that such families should be heard. According to the Household Budgetary Survey (NSO, 2003a), the Structural, Poverty, and Social Exclusion Indicators (NSO, 2003b), and the Survey in Income and Living conditions of 2005 (NSO, 2007), it is estimated that in 2000, 14.9% of the Maltese population were found to be living below the poverty line. Moreover, 20.6% of Maltese children under 16 years of age, were also found to be living below the poverty line (NSO, 2002). Tabone (1995, 1999) had already pointed out that a considerable number of families in Malta and Gozo were having difficulty trying to make both ends meet. This research project aims to provide a more in-depth picture of families living in this situation. In the first instance it highlights the relationship that exists between poverty and social exclusion. It also seeks to elicit social policy recommendations from families living below the poverty line with a particular emphasis being made on children. Service providers’ views, including those of employment advisors and teachers, will also be taken into account. For this purpose, a definition of poverty and social exclusion is provided. The literature on the relationship between poverty and social exclusion with a special emphasis on children is reviewed. Perspectives on the family situation and how this may be remedied are also considered. Particular emphasis is made on perceptions about the children’s future.