Work

The impact of the cost-of-living crisis on water poverty in Scotland: A lived-experience analysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: During the ongoing ‘cost-of-living (CoL) crisis’, households have faced increased household expenses, including water bills, which will hinder efforts towards tackling water poverty. Using a quota-based online panel survey ( n = 726), we aimed to quantify the impact of the CoL crisis on water poverty in Scotland. Using lived experience rather than the typical income-based approach, we found that age and household income were significant predictors of water poverty, with younger respondents being more likely to struggle, contrary to conventional wisdom. We argue for the involvement of people with lived experience, government financial support and better targeting of that support.

Source: Utilities Policy

DOI: 10.1016/j.jup.2025.101983

Authors: Heather K. Anderson, A. Bradley Duthie, Craig W. McDougall, Richard S. Quilliam, Heather Price

Institutions: University of Stirling, University of Exeter, Scottish Collaboration for Public Health Research and Policy, University of Edinburgh

Language: English

Topic: Water Governance and Infrastructure

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: No poverty, Reduced inequalities, Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,950