The Youth Endowment Fund (YEF) has published an evidence review examining the relationship between poverty and children’s involvement in crime and violence. Focusing on studies from the UK and similar countries, the researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 31 published research papers. Findings show: poverty was a risk factor, though the review could not establish that poverty caused youth crime and violence; neighbourhood deprivation was most linked to non-violent crime, while low income was most linked to violent crime; and boys and girls experience risk differently.
Read the report: Evidence review on poverty and youth crime and violence
Source: Youth Endowment Fund
Date published: 27 August 2025
