Every 7th woman is at risk of poverty
Social
More and more people at risk of poverty are turning to Caritas for advice. Both in Salzburg and in the other federal states there are many inquiries because of the pandemic and rising energy prices. Women are particularly badly affected.
From January to October there were 12,000 consultations for people at risk of poverty at the Salzburg Caritas. Among them are many who have only recently slipped below the poverty line, according to the aid organization.
Life is getting more and more expensive
More and more families or single parents turn to the Christian organization because they can no longer afford the high housing costs. Half of the support that those affected receive from Caritas often go to housing.
Caritas demands a living income for women
Women are particularly badly affected. 14 percent of all women in Austria are at risk of poverty. Above all, the pandemic has increased unemployment among women. In addition, they take on most of the unpaid work, such as housekeeping, upbringing and caring for relatives.
In addition to the financial disadvantage, for example through part-time or poorer employment, there is enormous pressure on women, especially in crises, according to the aid organization. Caritas therefore demands a secure income and a sufficient pension for women so that they do not slip into poverty and dependency conditions. This requires a reform of the maintenance advance and a better work-life balance.