voluntary organisations, social enterprises and volunteering
voluntary organisations, social enterprises and volunteering
Universal and Targeted Approaches to Tackling Poverty: Key Messages from the Poverty and Inequality Commission
Created: 08/10/2026
The Poverty and Inequality Commission has published new research exploring the role of universal and targeted approaches in reducing poverty and inequality in Scotland.
The report reviews national and international evidence, maps how universal and targeted policies are used across Scotland and the UK, and considers what works best in supporting people experiencing poverty, particularly children and families.
One of the key findings is that there is no simple choice between universal and targeted approaches. The strongest evidence suggests that the most effective systems combine both: universal services that support everyone alongside targeted interventions that provide additional help to those who need it most.
The report highlights Scotland's distinctive approach, combining universal services such as funded childcare, free school meals and concessionary bus travel with targeted support like the Scottish Child Payment and other family benefits.
As Scotland continues its efforts to tackle child poverty and inequality in a challenging fiscal environment, this work provides evidence and practical considerations for policymakers on how different approaches can be combined to achieve the greatest impact.
Click here to read more and download the report