IFS provides an annual in-depth analysis of the levels and trends in inequality and poverty with a focus on child and pensioner poverty. These analyses form an important input into the public debate around benefits and other welfare policies.

We also comment on more specific issues. For instance, in contrast to a ‘middle class recession’ predicted by some, IFS researchers used a variety of data sources to demonstrate that it was low-skilled and low-educated workers who were once again hit hardest. We have also analysed trends in severe poverty demonstrating that a widely-used definition of income as less than 40% of the median is a poor guide to who has the lowest living standards. Both reports received attention of journalists and policymakers, helping change perceptions of these issues.