Spending Review 2024: What Do UK Citizens On £10,000-£96,000 Want?

Michael

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Post on Jun 12, 2025

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Spending Review 2024: What Do UK Citizens on £10,000-£96,000 Want?

The UK's 2024 Spending Review looms large, promising significant impacts on the nation's finances and the lives of its citizens. But what are the priorities of everyday Britons, from those earning the minimum wage to high earners? Understanding the diverse needs and desires across income brackets is crucial for policymakers to craft a truly representative and effective budget. This article delves into the key concerns and aspirations of UK citizens earning between £10,000 and £96,000, exploring their perspectives on taxation, public services, and economic stability.

The £10,000 - £30,000 Bracket: Focusing on Essentials

For those in the lower income brackets, the focus is firmly on essentials. Recent research from the Resolution Foundation highlights the significant strain on household budgets, with many struggling to afford basic necessities. This group overwhelmingly prioritizes:

• Increased support for affordable housing: Rent and mortgage payments consume a disproportionate amount of their income, leaving little for other essential expenses. Increased social housing provision and rent controls are frequently cited as vital needs.
• Improved access to quality healthcare: The NHS remains a central concern, with calls for increased funding to reduce waiting times and improve access to crucial services.
• Support for childcare costs: The rising cost of childcare presents a major barrier to work for many families in this bracket, hindering economic participation and perpetuating a cycle of poverty.

The £30,000 - £60,000 Bracket: Balancing Act Between Needs and Aspiration

This middle-income group faces a different set of challenges. While they are generally better off than those below them, they are still acutely aware of rising living costs and the increasing pressure on household finances. Their priorities often involve a balance between immediate needs and future aspirations:

• Taxation reforms: Fairness in the tax system is a key concern, with calls for a more progressive system that eases the burden on middle-income earners. The impact of recent tax increases on disposable income is a significant source of anxiety.
• Investment in education and skills: Many in this group recognize the importance of education and training for upward mobility and economic security for their children and future generations. Increased funding for schools and further education is a frequent demand.
• Improved infrastructure: Reliable public transport, better broadband access, and improved local amenities are all high on the list of priorities.

The £60,000 - £96,000 Bracket: Long-Term Security and Economic Stability

Higher earners, while generally more financially secure, also have significant concerns. Their priorities often shift towards long-term security and economic stability for themselves and the wider economy:

• Pension reforms: Adequate pension provision is a key concern, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding future economic conditions. Reform to state pensions and encouragement of private pension schemes are important considerations.
• Investment in green technology and infrastructure: This group is increasingly environmentally conscious and supports investment in sustainable solutions to mitigate climate change.
• Support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): Recognising the importance of SMEs to the UK economy, this group advocates for policies that foster their growth and innovation.

What the Spending Review Needs to Address:

The 2024 Spending Review must address the diverse needs of all income groups. Ignoring the concerns of any segment risks exacerbating existing inequalities and undermining social cohesion. A successful budget will require:

• Targeted support for low-income households: Direct financial assistance, improved access to essential services, and measures to address cost of living pressures are crucial.
• Investment in human capital: Increased funding for education, training, and healthcare will improve long-term productivity and economic growth.
• Sustainable economic policies: A balanced approach to taxation, public spending, and investment is necessary to foster long-term economic stability.

The upcoming Spending Review presents a critical opportunity to shape the UK's economic future. By carefully considering the priorities of all citizens, from those earning £10,000 to those earning £96,000, the government can craft a budget that addresses the nation’s most pressing challenges and builds a more prosperous and equitable society. Let's hope the government listens carefully. What are your priorities for the Spending Review? Share your thoughts in the comments below.