The recession, austerity measures and health

Financial difficulties and debt in particular are often associated with impacts on mental health and wellbeing. In addition, health inequalities can be expected to increase during a recession, affecting those who already experience poverty and poor health the most. There is real concern that the impact of financial difficulties on health may reduce some of the potential positive effects accruing from housing improvements and area regeneration. 

GoWell undertook a qualitative study to investigate the relationships between financial difficulties and health in more depth. Twenty-five semi-structured interviews were carried out between April and June 2014 across all of the GoWell areas. 

This paper outlines the key findings of this study, identifying two areas where innovative interventions could be devised in order to mitigate the potential negative effects of financial difficulties on health.