Introduktion
Greetings, folks! I'm Amalie, proudly representing the debate squad over at Manchester College. A warm welcome to each and every one of you joining us for the Oxford Schools Regional Debate Competition.

Our focus this year revolves around the challenges faced by the UK, and today, I'll be shedding light on the pressing issue of poverty.

Throughout my address, I'll delve into the rising tide of poverty in the UK, explore diverse perspectives on the matter, and examine potential outcomes stemming from the prevailing austerity measures. Feel free to shoot any questions my way once I wrap up my presentation. Let's kick things off!

Utdrag
Gill Burns, a dedicated support worker at a primary school, witnesses firsthand the impact of poverty. From laundering students' uniforms to providing meals and assisting parents charging their phones due to a lack of electricity at home, Gill goes above and beyond.

Distributing shoes and jackets, accompanying parents to food banks, and extending support during Christmas with gifts and a festive meal underscore the depth of the challenges faced by families in poverty.

The situation is dire; a concerned doctor notes the risk of conditions like rickets among children living in poverty due to inadequate nutrition.

When asked what they desire, students in these circumstances express basic needs—heat, a secure roof over their heads, and sufficient food.

Despite the commendable efforts of domestic anti-poverty campaigners, charitable food aid organizations, schools, and community centers, the rising hunger in impoverished families remains a pressing concern, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.

The spectrum of attitudes towards poverty is diverse, prompting the question of individual responsibility versus societal culpability.

Who bears the blame? Research suggests that the continuous reduction in welfare support each year contributes to more families grappling with poverty.

However, contrasting perspectives emerge, with Philip Hammond dismissing the existence of widespread poverty in Britain, perceiving only a handful of individuals struggling. His remedy involves evolving the economic system if it fails to distribute wealth fairly.

Philip Alston, in stark contrast, attributes tragic consequences to cuts in public services. The blame seems to extend to society itself, with structural disparities in classes, influenced by factors such as residence, gender, ethnicity, and immigrant status.