Social Inequality

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One type of inequality that exists in the UK is differences in life expectancy. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One type of inequality that exists in the UK is differences in life expectancy. People from deprived areas or lower-income backgrounds often have a lower life expectancy compared to those in more affluent areas. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One type of inequality that exists in the UK is differences in life expectancy. People from deprived areas or lower-income backgrounds often have a lower life expectancy compared to those in more affluent areas. This is partly due to poorer access to healthcare, unhealthy living conditions, and lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. low paid employment
2. regional inequalities in income
3. property ownership
4. university tuition fees/university access
5. gender inequality — pay gap
6. race inequalities — discrimination/hate crime.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One consequence of social and economic inequality for families is that some struggle financially. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One consequence of social and economic inequality for families is that some struggle financially. Many families suffering from social and economic inequality are on the minimum wage. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One consequence of social and economic inequality for families is that some struggle financially. Many families suffering from social and economic inequality are on the minimum wage. This makes it more difficult to pay for holidays or build savings. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. suffer greater mental and physical health difficulties due to stress
2. poor nutrition
3. poor living conditions
4. lower social mobility
5. lower life expectancy
6. higher infant mortality.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One cause of social and economic inequality is the disparity in wages and salaries. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One cause of social and economic inequality is the disparity in wages and salaries. For those aged between 18-20, the minimum wage is an hourly rate of £10.85 whereas the minimum wage for those aged 21 and over is £12.71. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One cause of social and economic inequality is the disparity in wages and salaries. For those aged between 18-20, the minimum wage is an hourly rate of £10.85 whereas the minimum wage for those aged 21 and over is £12.71. However, even those on the higher rate of minimum wage will suffer inequality, earning less than the annual average income in the UK which in 2024 was £37,430. This goes even further with the average income in certain areas of the UK being higher for example, the average annual income in London in 2024 was £47,455. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. varying levels of education, experience and skills
2. discrimination/stereotyping
3. gender
4. privilege/social class
5. welfare cuts/benefit dependency.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One reason why the government is effective in tackling social and economic inequality is because they provide benefits to those in need. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One reason why the government is effective in tackling social and economic inequality is because they provide benefits to those in need. Benefits include Universal Credit, Child Benefit and Pension Credit which help those in financial difficulty. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One reason why the government is effective in tackling social and economic inequality is because they provide benefits to those in need. Benefits include Universal Credit, Child Benefit and Pension Credit which help those in financial difficulty. This is effective because it boosts incomes, aims to reduce poverty gaps and improve overall standard of living. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. whole-government strategies — 'Levelling Up Reforms'
2. strengthened welfare and employment reforms
3. targeted action — 'Inclusive Britain'
4. fairer local government funding.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One way in which social and economic inequality is a problem in Scotland and the UK is because of the high rates of child poverty. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One way in which social and economic inequality is a problem in Scotland and the UK is because of the high rates of child poverty. According to the Child Poverty Action Group, child poverty is rising with large numbers of children living in relative poverty. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One way in which social and economic inequality is a problem in Scotland and the UK is because of the high rates of child poverty. According to the Child Poverty Action Group, child poverty is rising with large numbers of children living in relative poverty. For example, in 2022 4.2 million children in the UK were living in poverty, which is around 29% of all children. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. unemployment
2. in-work poverty
3. food bank use
4. homelessness
5. higher crime rates
6. health inequalities.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One consequence of social and economic inequality on wider society is widening health inequalities. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One consequence of social and economic inequality on wider society is widening health inequalities. This is because there is a direct link between income and poor health as those who live in poverty are more likely to experience more health issues. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One consequence of social and economic inequality on wider society is widening health inequalities. This is because there is a direct link between income and poor health as those who live in poverty are more likely to experience more health issues. For example, life expectancy in Glasgow varies hugely between richer and poorer areas of the city — in Pollokshields, life expectancy is 83 years whilst in Govan it is 65.4. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. attainment gap
2. higher taxation/benefit spending
3. unemployment
4. stagnant housing market
5. pressure on services.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One way in which the private sector has been successful in tackling social and economic inequalities is through working in partnership with the Scottish Government to provide modern apprenticeships. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One way in which the private sector has been successful in tackling social and economic inequalities is through working in partnership with the Scottish Government to provide modern apprenticeships. This is when private companies employ and train a young person in a range of industries, such as construction, IT, social care and sports development. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One way in which the private sector has been successful in tackling social and economic inequalities is through working in partnership with the Scottish Government to provide modern apprenticeships. This is when private companies employ and train a young person in a range of industries, such as construction, IT, social care and sports development. This has been a success because in 2023 the number of modern apprenticeships exceeded the target of 25,000, with 25,477 being trained according to Skills Development Scotland. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. One way in which the private sector has been successful in tackling social and economic inequalities is through working in partnership with the Scottish Government to provide modern apprenticeships. This is when private companies employ and train a young person in a range of industries such as construction, IT, social care and sports development. This has been a success because in 2023 the number of modern apprenticeships exceeded the target of 25,000, with 25,477 being trained according to Skills Development Scotland. In addition, the majority of these apprentices (81%) were working towards securing qualifications beyond Higher level, which in turn creates improved job security. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. social housing allocation within private housing developments
2. flexible working hours
3. real living wage
4. positive discrimination
5. private health care packages
6. discounted shopping days, for example B&Q over 60's card
7. regeneration of areas, such as Easterhouse (Glasgow Fort).

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One consequence of social and economic inequality on communities is shops closing down. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One consequence of social and economic inequality on communities is shops closing down. This is because there is a lack of money in the community to spend in shops. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One consequence of social and economic inequality on communities is shops closing down. This is because there is a lack of money in the community to spend in shops. This results in 'food deserts' where the community cannot access fresh food. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. lack of business investment
2. higher crime rates
3. unemployment
4. lower house prices
5. social exclusion.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. The government has attempted to reduce inequality by providing financial benefits to people who can't work. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. The government has attempted to reduce inequality by providing financial benefits to people who can't work. One type of benefit is called Universal Credit. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. The government has attempted to reduce inequality by providing financial benefits to people who can't work. One type of benefit is called Universal Credit. This is a payment paid to individuals who are on a low income, out of work or can't work. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. other financial benefits, for example: Child Benefit; Personal Independence Payment (PIP); Disability Living Allowance (DLA); State Pension
2. increasing wages through the National Living Wage
3. providing health care through the NHS
4. education: student loans, and bursaries.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One reason why unemployment can cause inequality is that it can lead to social exclusion. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One reason why unemployment can cause inequality is that it can lead to social exclusion. People are isolated from social activities due to a lack of money. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One reason why unemployment can cause inequality is that it can lead to social exclusion. People are isolated from social activities due to a lack of money. As a result, their children are also excluded from activities such as residentials and proms costing over £200 (CPAG). (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. One reason why unemployment can cause inequality is that it can lead to social exclusion. People are isolated from social activities due to a lack of money. As a result, their children are also excluded from activities such as residentials and proms costing over £200 (CPAG). This can often lead to increased mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. poverty
2. poorer quality housing
3. poor health
4. reduced social mobility.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One consequence of social and economic inequality is living in poverty. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One consequence of social and economic inequality is living in poverty. This can be caused by unemployment which means people have a low income. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One consequence of social and economic inequality is living in poverty. This can be caused by unemployment which means people have a low income. For example, people who are unemployed may have to rely on Universal Credit. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. poor health
2. poor housing/homelessness
3. debt
4. social exclusion
5. poor lifestyle choices.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. Lower educational attainment means that some people will have fewer qualifications and so will find it harder to get well-paid jobs. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Lower educational attainment means that some people have fewer qualifications and so will not be able to access further and higher education. This means they will find it harder to progress into well-paid careers. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Lower educational attainment means that some people have fewer qualifications and so will not be able to access further and higher education. This means they will find it harder to progress into well-paid careers. In Scotland, 59.3% of the least deprived students go on to Higher education, compared with 25.9% of the most deprived. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Lower educational attainment means that some people have fewer qualifications and so will not be able to access further and higher education. This means they will find it harder to progress into well-paid careers. In Scotland, 59.3% of the least deprived students go on to Higher education, compared with 25.9% of the most deprived. This is called the ‘attainment gap’ and it has a direct impact on future earnings. Evidence from ONS has found the highest earning full-time employee jobs were paid almost five times as much per hour as the lowest paid which shows that a well-paid, professional job will make a big difference to household income. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. impact of living in deprived v affluent areas
2. social exclusion
3. impact of ethnicity
4. cycle of poverty.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. Voluntary sector charities have shops which raise funds to tackle certain issues within communities. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Voluntary sector charities have shops which raise funds to tackle certain issues within communities. These funds can be used for targeted projects to support specific groups such as young people or the elderly. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Voluntary sector charities have shops which raise funds to tackle certain issues within communities. These funds can be used for targeted projects to support specific groups such as young people or the elderly. For example, Barnardo’s charity shops raise funds to support projects that work with young people involved in substance abuse. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Voluntary sector charities have shops which raise funds to help deprived groups. These funds are then used to provide opportunities and support for specific groups. For example, Barnardo’s charity shops raise funds to support projects that work with young people involved in substance abuse. By doing this they are tackling the root cause of the issue to improve life chances for young people. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. tackling hunger for example, food banks
2. supporting health and wellbeing, for example care in the community
3. provide advice for example, Age Concern and British Red Cross
4. providing helplines to assist people
5. Citizen’s Advice service
6. befriending services.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. The government has attempted to reduce inequality by providing financial benefits to people who can't work. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. The government has attempted to reduce inequality by providing financial benefits to people who can't work. One type of benefit is called Universal Credit. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. The government has attempted to reduce inequality by providing financial benefits to people who can't work. One type of benefit is called Universal Credit. Claimants of this benefit must meet a certain criteria and face penalties if they fail to do so. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. other financial benefits available, for example: child benefit; Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for people with illness, disability or mental health condition; Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for parents/carers of a disabled child; state pension.
2. increasing wages through the National Living Wage
3. providing health care through the NHS
4. housing benefits
5. education: student loans, scholarships and bursaries.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. One consequence of social and economic inequality on families is that they live in poverty. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One consequence of social and economic inequality on families is that they live in poverty. Parents will worry a lot about money and making ends meet and this could cause poor mental health. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One consequence of social and economic inequality on families is that they live in poverty. Parents will worry a lot about money and making ends meet and this could cause poor mental health. Children living in families where there is poverty, have been found to be more likely to experience adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) such as domestic violence, separation/divorce and abuse. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. more likely to have lower life expectancy
2. rely on free school meals
3. less likely to do well at school
4. miss out on things like school trips, holidays, extra-curricular activities
5. live in inadequate housing
6. live in areas affected by crime
7. more likely to develop mental health problems
8. more likely to be socially excluded
9. stuck in a 'cycle of poverty'.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Women experience inequality because of discrimination. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Women experience inequality because of discrimination. Some women are still paid less than men for the same work. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Women experience inequality because of discrimination. Some women are still paid less than men for the same work. For example, female GPs are paid up to 33% less than male GPs. This is 10% higher than the overall NHS gender pay gap which is 23%. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Gender

1. 'motherhood penalty'
2. women are still more likely to be in low paid and low skilled jobs
3. impact of the 'glass ceiling.'

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Age

1. age discrimination in employment
2. some elderly are very wealthy: occupational and private pensions v state pension
3. ageist attitudes.

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Minority ethnic groups

1. 'glass door' effect leading to unemployment, under representation in jobs/politics
2. poorer education attainment
3. racist attitudes, harassment, victims of crime.

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Social class

1. less likely to do well at school
2. more likely to be victim of crime
3. more likely to suffer from social exclusion
4. more likely to have low pay/be unemployed
5. cycle of poverty.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One way that discrimination causes social and economic inequality is that women are often paid less than men. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One way that discrimination causes social and economic inequality is that women are often paid less than men. Women find it hard to get promoted into senior positions due to a ‘glass ceiling’. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One way that discrimination causes social and economic inequality is that women are often paid less than men. Women find it hard to get promoted into senior positions due to a ‘glass ceiling’. This means that women are more likely to live in poverty — 5·2 million women were in poverty in the UK in 2018, compared with 4·7 million men. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. ‘motherhood penalty’
2. presenteeism
3. higher unemployment rate among ethnic minorities
4. ethnic minority income
5. ageism in employment
6. financial discrimination — for example, insurance premiums.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. One consequence of social inequality on wider society is that taxation may increase. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One consequence of social inequality on wider society is that taxation may increase. More public money is needed to close the inequality gap on poverty. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One consequence of social inequality on wider society is that taxation may increase. More public money is needed to close the inequality gap on poverty. For example the Scottish Government introduced an income tax rate of 41% for higher earners. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. lower education attainment
2. social exclusion
3. higher crime rates
4. vandalism and anti-social behaviour associated with deprivation
5. unemployment
6. house prices decline
7. lower life expectancy
8. health inequalities
9. north/south divide.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. Government are effective in tackling social and economic inequality because it can pass legislation. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Government are effective in tackling social and economic inequality because it can pass legislation. The Equality Act 2010 makes it illegal to pay women less if they are doing the same job as men. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Government are effective in tackling social and economic inequality because it can pass legislation. The Equality Act 2010 makes it illegal to pay women less if they are doing the same job as men. For example, female workers from Glasgow City Council were awarded compensation for being underpaid for 12 years. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Government is effective in tackling social and economic inequality because it can pass legislation. The Equality Act 2010 makes it illegal to pay women less if they are doing the same job as men. For example, female workers from Glasgow City Council were awarded compensation for being underpaid for 12 years. This is effective because it will discourage other employers from underpaying staff due to gender or race. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. universal credit
2. free school meals
3. EMA
4. clothing grants
5. baby box
6. free prescriptions
7. jobseeker’s allowance
8. PEF funding
9. state pension.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. When there is a lot of poverty in a community then it might lead to people leaving the area. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. When there is a lot of poverty in a community then it might lead to people leaving the area. People will have to move to find work and this means that there will be less people paying their council tax. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. When there is a lot of poverty in a community then it might lead to people leaving the area. People will have to move to find work and this means that there will be less people paying their council tax. This then means that it will be difficult for councils to provide services like libraries, swimming pools and schools. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. businesses leave
2. lower educational attainment
3. higher crime rates, for example vandalism and anti-social behaviour
4. unemployment
5. house prices go down
6. rates of social exclusion increase which has an impact on health services.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. One way that highlights that inequality is a problem in the UK is child poverty. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. One way that highlights that inequality is a problem in the UK is child poverty. In March 2018 it was estimated that over 4 million children in the UK lived in poverty. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. One way that highlights that inequality is a problem in the UK is child poverty. In March 2018 it was estimated that over 4 million children in the UK lived in poverty. The Child Poverty Action Group suggests that this is due to benefit cuts and reduction in tax credits. (3 marks — accurate point with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. unemployment
2. homelessness
3. gender pay gap
4. health inequalities.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Private companies have tackled social and economic inequality by working in partnership with the Scottish Government to provide jobs. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Private companies have tackled social and economic inequality by working in partnership with the Scottish Government to provide jobs and apprenticeships. Modern Apprenticeships are for people aged over 16 and helps them into paid employment. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Private companies have tackled social and economic inequality by working in partnership with the Scottish Government to provide apprenticeships. Modern Apprenticeships are for people aged over 16 which helps them into paid employment and gives them training which could lead to further qualifications such as an SVQ in Business Administration or Joinery. This is seen as a very successful way of reducing the number of NEETs (Not in Employment Education or Training) and these are valued by employers when the apprentice is looking to further their career. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. more women on boards of private companies
2. affordable housing
3. private sector initiatives, for example Sainsbury's have a 'slow shopping' day
4. flexible working hours
5. non-discriminatory policies
6. financial incentives, for example childcare subsidy.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Discrimination affects women because it means they are less likely to get promotion. (1 mark — accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Discrimination affects women because it means they are less likely to get promotion compared to men. This means that they are less likely to have high paying jobs. (2 marks — accurate point with development)
3. Discrimination affects women because it means they are less likely to get promotion compared to men. This means that they are less likely to have high paying jobs. This might be because employers are worried they may take time off to have children. Evidence has shown that mothers who return to work end up earning a third less than men and face a 'glass ceiling' when going for promotion. Although there are now more women on boards of FTSE 100 companies than in the past showing that there has been improvement. (4 marks — accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Women

1. more likely to take time out of career for children/be unemployed
2. more likely to live in poverty
3. can face harassment in the workplace, for example evidence of sexual harassment in parliament/film industry recently
4. less likely to stand as candidates in elections, poorer levels of political representation.

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Minority ethnic groups

1. a 'glass door' which leads to higher levels of unemployment
2. racist attitudes
3. harassment and intimidation
4. lower wage levels
5. under represented in many jobs and in politics
6. lack of role models
7. more likely to have poorer housing.

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Elderly

1. can face abuse/harassment/victimisation
2. unequal treatment in healthcare, for example rationing of care
3. ageism.

Credit reference to aspects of the following — Social class

1. more likely to turn to crime
2. stigma
3. more likely to have poor mental health.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. The Government provides the pension for elderly people. [1 mark—accurate but undeveloped point]
2. The Government tries to help unemployed people by providing “Jobcentre plus” which gives them free interview advice. [2 marks—accurate point with development]
3. The Government has helped protect ethnic minority groups through the Equality Act (2010). This replaces various other laws against racism. These groups cannot be discriminated against in any walk of life, eg housing, employment, benefits, leisure, law and order. [3 marks—accurate point with development and exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following: Ethnic minority groups

1. Protection from discrimination through various pieces of legislation now consolidated by the Equality Act (2010).
2. Support of various anti-racist campaigns, eg “One Scotland, Many Cultures”.
3. Various social benefits provided to all affected groups, eg Income Support, Housing Benefit. Welfare Reform Act introducing the Universal Benefit and reforming the Social Fund system.

Elderly people

1. Provision of the State retirement pension and introduction of new Workplace Pensions in 2012.
2. Various social benefits provided to all affected groups, eg Income Support, Housing Benefit. Welfare Reform Act which makes big changes to Disability Living Allowance.
3. Various free, universal benefits available to the elderly such as free personal care in Scotland and free bus travel.

Unemployed

1. Various services provided by Jobcentre plus such as “The Work Programme”, “Work Clubs”, “Enterprise Clubs” etc. Jobcentre plus also provides advice, job search facilities and access to benefits.
2. Provision of benefits including the new Universal Credit which aims to encourage claimants back into work. This will involve reform of the Employment and Support Allowance, Job Seekers Allowance etc.
3. Training/retraining opportunities through further education and organisations such as “Skills Development Scotland” providing schemes like Modern Apprenticeships and its website “My world of work”.

Lone parent families

1. Protection from discrimination through the Equality Act (2010).
2. Various social benefits provided to all affected groups, eg Income Support, Housing Benefit. Welfare Reform Act introducing the Universal Benefit which contains a childcare element replacing Child Tax Credit.
3. Free nursery places for three and four-year-olds, Sure Start Children’s Centres, Maternity Grants etc.

Disabled groups

1. Protection from discrimination through the Equality Act (2010), replacing various pieces of disability rights legislation.
2. Various social benefits provided to all affected groups, eg Income Support, Housing Benefit. Welfare Reform Act introducing the Universal Benefit which contains a Personal Independence payment.

Women

1. Protection from discrimination through the Equality Act (2010), replacing various pieces of legislation.
2. Various social benefits provided to all affected groups, eg Income Support, Housing Benefit. Welfare Reform Act introducing the Universal Benefit which will encourage claimants back into work.

Possible approaches to answering the question:

1. Some people have good health because they eat vegetables. [1 mark—accurate but undeveloped point]
2. Some people have good health because they take regular exercise which keeps their heart fit and strong. [2 marks—accurate point with development]
3. Some people have poor health as they may live in a poor quality house. If they have inadequate heating or their house is damp then conditions like asthma and bronchitis are more likely. [3 marks—accurate point with development and exemplification]
4. Some people have poor health due to the choices they make in the way they live their lives. Smokers are more likely to develop lung cancer, drinkers are more likely to damage their liver and those who abuse heroin are more likely to fall victim to HIV/AIDS. People choose to do these things but they are also linked to poverty, ie people who live in poverty are more likely to abuse themselves in these ways. This is shown by the fact that life expectancy in Scotland’s poorest areas is almost twenty years less than in its wealthiest areas. [4 marks—relevant, accurate point with development, analysis and exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following:

1. Lifestyle factors—eg the effects of smoking, drink/alcohol abuse, lack of exercise.
2. Social and economic disadvantages—eg poor diet, effects of poverty.
3. Geography and environment—eg poor quality housing, limited access to local amenities, high levels of crime.
4. Age—The older you are the more likely you are to suffer poor health.
5. Gender—Women live longer than men but are more likely to suffer poor health.
6. Race—High incidence of heart attacks, strokes, depression etc amongst some ethnic minorities. Also more likely to suffer socio-economic disadvantage and therefore suffer ill health due to this.

PRIVATE SECTOR

1. Private companies can build housing for low income groups. (1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Private companies can build housing for low income groups. Housing developers are often required to build a specified number of affordable homes in new developments. (2 marks – accurate point with development)
3. Private companies can build housing for low income groups. Housing developers build a specified number of affordable homes and then work with the local council and the Scottish government (through the Scottish Futures Trust) who buy the homes and lets them to tenants at affordable rent. (3 marks – accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. Credit reference to aspects of the following:
5. positive discrimination policies to encourage minority groups
6. Asda's diversity and inclusion policy ensures there is no discrimination in terms of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or disability
7. B&Q actively recruits from all age groups and, with 28% of its workforce over the age of 50, it has many employees who are semi-retired
8. Sainsbury's actively tries to recruit more 'mature' workers across Britain
9. providing good benefits eg maternity pay, family and sick pay
10. TSB employees receive 4% on top of their basic salary to spend on tax-efficient benefits such as childcare or critical illness cover. Workers are each allowed two paid days a year for voluntary work and the firm allows flexible working hours. Parents are encouraged to attend their children's nativity plays and sports days
11. Iceland frozen food chain made sure frontline staff were paid at least 2% above the national living wage and abolished its lower rate for new starters
12. working with the government in joint projects which create jobs in railways, construction (eg building and maintaining roads and highways). In Scotland, this is now called Non-profit distributing (NPD) and replaces PPI.

VOLUNTARY SECTOR

1. Voluntary sector has charity shops which raise funds to help deprived groups. (1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Voluntary sector charities, such as Oxfam and Save the Children, have shops which raise funds to help deprived groups. (2 marks – accurate point with development)
3. Voluntary sector charities, such as Oxfam and Save the Children, have shops which raise funds to help deprived groups. They also give opportunities to volunteers to build skills and confidence which will help them get a job. (3 marks – accurate point with development and exemplification)
4. research and publish reports, recommendations to the government about tackling poverty and disadvantage eg Joseph Rowntree Foundation
5. some charities, eg Trussell Trust, provide food through a network of food banks across the UK. They can provide 3 days emergency food to families who are struggling to afford basic food items
6. provide advice eg Age Concern provides information and advice over their helpline eg helping people find out the benefits they are entitled to claim
7. befriending services eg Scope run befriending services for families of disabled people and they provide emotional and practical support to struggling parents
8. Comic Relief raises millions of pounds, mainly through two big fundraising campaigns: Red Nose Day and Sport Relief and give these to charity and voluntary organisations around the UK.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Social and economic inequality continues to exist because some people have a better paying job. (1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Social and economic inequality continues to exist because some people have a better paying job eg a doctor is paid more than a hospital porter. (2 marks - accurate point with development)
3. Social and economic inequality continues to exist because some people have a better paying job eg a doctor is paid more than a hospital porter. This means that the doctor can choose to live in more affluent areas. (3 marks – accurate point with development and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. unemployment
2. skills and experience
3. number of dependent children
4. education/training
5. poor health: unable to work due to illness
6. racial discrimination
7. gender discrimination
8. criminal record makes it difficult to find work
9. access to healthcare
10. housing/environment
11. inheritance.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Social and economic inequality has a negative consequence on families because they may feel socially excluded. (1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point)
2. Social and economic inequality has a negative consequence on families because they may feel socially excluded. For example, they may not be able to afford certain school trips for their children. (2 marks - accurate point with development)
3. Social and economic inequality has a negative consequence on families because they may feel socially excluded. For example, they may not be able to afford certain school trips for their children. This could lead to the children feeling isolated, developing low self-esteem and being victims of bullying. This applies to almost one in four children in the UK. (4 marks – accurate point with development, exemplification and analysis)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. cycle of poverty
2. poor health (physical and mental)
3. poor housing
4. underperformance in education
5. the cost to wider society eg taxation
6. crime.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. One consequence of social inequalities on communities is that businesses may leave the area. (1 mark accurate but undeveloped)
2. One consequence of social inequalities on communities is that businesses may leave the area. This means that people living in the area have less access to certain services. (2 marks accurate and developed)
3. One consequence of social inequalities on communities is that businesses may leave the area. This means that people living in the area have less access to certain services and have to travel further to meet their needs. For example, people may have to spend money in order to travel to large retail parks to access a supermarket. (3 marks accurate with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Lower educational attainment
2. Higher crime rates eg vandalism and anti-social behaviour
3. Unemployment
4. House prices
5. Social exclusion.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. One reason why people are more likely to suffer social inequalities is discrimination. (1 mark accurate but undeveloped)
2. One reason why people are more likely to suffer social inequalities is discrimination. Women are often paid less than men even when they do the same job. (2 marks accurate and developed)
3. One reason why people are more likely to suffer social inequalities is discrimination. Women are often paid less than men even when they do the same job. For example, in the UK, the pay-gap is approximately 19%. (3 marks accurate with development and exemplification)

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Other forms of discrimination, eg ageism, racism
2. Unemployment
3. Lone parents
4. Low income
5. Geographical location
6. Poverty cycle.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. The Government has tried to reduce the inequalities experienced by Women/Ethnic Minorities/Elderly by passing laws. [1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point]
2. The Government has tried to reduce the inequalities faced by women by passing the Equality Act which makes it illegal to pay women less if they are doing the same job as men. [2 marks – accurate point with development]
3. The Government has tried to reduce the inequalities faced by the disabled by passing laws such as the Equality Act in 2010 which makes it illegal to discriminate against a disabled person in the areas of employment and education. In the area of employment employers cannot treat disabled people differently and must provide disabled employees with special equipment to help then to their job. [3 marks – accurate, well developed point with exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Disabled people are also protected by the UN Convention on Disability Rights (The Disabled)
2. Office for Disability Issues (The Disabled)
3. Inclusive Communication (The Disabled & Ethnic Minorities)
4. The Accessible Britain Challenge & Awards
5. Sex Discrimination Act (Women)
6. The Equalities & Human Rights Commission – investigates complaints
7. Race Relations Act (Ethnic Minorities)
8. Women on Board Report (Women)
9. Equality Advisory & Support Service (EASS)
10. Making Sport Inclusive Programme
11. Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007 - Forced Marriage Protection Order (FMPO)
12. Government Campaigns: One Scotland, Show Racism the Red Card etc

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Some people have a better standard of living because they have a good job. [1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point]
2. Some people have a better standard of living because they have a good job that pays well, such as a teacher. [2 marks - accurate point with exemplification]
3. Some people have a better standard of living because they have a good job that pays well, such as a teacher. This may be because they have a number of qualifications, such as a degree, having gone to University for several years. [3 marks – accurate point with development and exemplification]
4. Some people are economically disadvantaged because of their family structure. Single parents, for example, may find it harder to find a well-paid job. A two parent family are likely to have a much higher income. Even if a lone parent has good qualifications they can only work at certain times as their child care costs are too high. A family with two parents have a better standard of living, as a result this may have a positive impact on the education and health of their children. [4 marks – relevant, accurate point with development, analysis and exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Employment
2. Skills and experience
3. Number of dependent children
4. Education/training
5. Poor health: unable to work due to illness
6. Racial Discrimination
7. Gender Discrimination
8. Criminal record makes it difficult to find work
9. Access to healthcare
10. Housing/environment
11. Inheritance

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. The Government has tried to reduce social inequalities by encouraging people to make better lifestyle choices. [1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point]
2. The Government has tried to reduce social inequalities in housing by providing Social Housing to those who need it, to make sure everyone has an acceptable standard of housing. [2 marks – accurate with development]
3. The Government has tried to reduce social inequalities in education by providing free state education. They also reduce inequalities within education by providing free school meals and clothing vouchers to pupils from lower income backgrounds. [3 marks – accurate point with development and exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Health: Passing Laws, providing free health care, issuing public guidelines (smoking/exercise/healthy eating).
2. Education: Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA); Student Loans; Scholarships and bursaries.
3. Housing: Housing benefit.
4. Discrimination: Equality Act 2010, Equality & Human Rights Commission (EHRC).
5. Welfare Benefits: the government provides a huge range of benefits for the elderly, families, out of work, disabled etc.
6. Any other relevant factual key point of knowledge that meets the criteria described in the general marking instructions for this kind of question (see column to left).

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Ethnic minorities still face inequality in society because they still face racism in some areas of society. [1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point]
2. Older people still face inequality in society because they face discrimination in the world of work because some employers think they don't have IT skills. [2 marks – accurate with development]
3. Women still face inequality in society because of sexism. Employers, for example, might not want to employ a woman as they think she will need time off to look after her children. This means that women find it more difficult to find suitable work and as a result often work part-time in occupations like cleaning, childcare etc. Many women feel that the glass ceiling still exists which limits opportunities for promotion in their careers. [4 marks – accurate point with development, analysis and exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Ethnic Minorities: Prejudice, language barriers, poor educational attainment, higher unemployment rates, specific health issues.
2. Older People: Ageism; financial preparation for retirement; previous occupation; family support; changes to benefit system, ie bedroom tax and employability.
3. Women: Sexism; glass ceiling; pay gap; employment in 5C's, child care availability and costs.
4. Disabled: Prejudice; over qualification; lack of work experience; family support network; continuing health issues; reliance on benefits.
5. Lone Parents: Prejudice, family commitments, lack of qualifications, no support network/child care.
6. Unemployed: Stigma of long term unemployment, lack of experience,
7. Changes to the benefit system, the recession.
8. Any other relevant factual key point of knowledge that meets the criteria described in the general marking instructions for this kind of question (see column to left).

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. The Government has tried to tackle inequality by providing benefits. [1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point]
2. The Government has tried to tackle inequality by providing more apprenticeships. [1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point]
3. The Voluntary sector has tried to tackle inequality by providing financial support to vulnerable groups such as children. Cash for Kids is a children's charity that raises money for disadvantaged children. It helps by giving money to families who are in need and giving community group's money to pay for days out. [2 marks – accurate with development]
4. The Government has introduced the Universal Credit to tackle inequality. This benefit was introduced in October 2013. Universal Credit is a single payment that merges a number of benefits together to make them easier to claim. For example, Universal Credit helps to pay child care costs and allow parents to work. [3 marks – accurate point with development and exemplification]
5. No credit should be given to candidates who identify a cause of inequality; rather the candidate must describe the actions taken by their chosen group.
6. The Government has tried to tackle unemployment which creates inequality. [Zero Mark – this answer identifies the cause of inequality not the action]

Credit reference to aspects of the following — GOVERNMENT

1. All major benefits provided by Central Government including: Universal Credit; Attendance Allowance; Disability Living Allowance, Carers Allowance etc.
2. Elderly Benefits: Pension Credits; Winter Fuel payment; Cold Weather Payments and free TV Licence for over 75yrs.
3. Council Tax Benefit: Helps to meet the financial needs of low income groups by providing a reduction in their Council Tax bill.
4. Families: Free School Meals; School Clothing vouchers, Maternity Allowance and Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA).
5. Disability Living Allowance (Known from April 2013 as Person Independence Payments): Paid to those under 65 who have extra costs created by a disability.
6. Recent legislation e.g. Childcare Act [2006], Equality Act [2010]

INDIVIDUALS

1. Taking individual responsibility for circumstances.
2. Working hard at school, college & university.
3. Undertaking voluntary work to gain skills/experience.
4. Contributing to charity – altruistic actions.
5. Setting a good example for peers/friends/family.
6. Making full use of government help eg training schemes or Job Centre Plus.

VOLUNTARY SECTOR

1. Charities: groups such as Barnardo's, Enable Scotland, Glasgow's Children's Holiday Scheme or Glasgow the Caring City who help the most vulnerable in society.
2. Housing Associations: Non-profit making organisations that provide low cost social housing.
3. Credit Unions: Providing low cost loans and mortgages to its members.

PRIVATE SECTOR

1. Retail/Shops: Providing special discount days for vulnerable groups eg B&Q Pensioners discount.
2. Leisure Facilities: Concession and reduced gym membership rates for students, pensioners and families. Special family meals deal in restaurants.
3. Private Schools/Nurseries: Reduced fees for more than one child.
4. Supermarkets: Introduction of low cost/value brand fruit and vegetables.

Possible approaches to answering the question

1. Some people live in poverty because they don't have a job. [1 mark – accurate but undeveloped point]
2. Some people live in poverty because they have lost their job because of a recession. [2 marks – accurate point with development]
3. Some people live in poverty because they lack qualifications. This might be because they did not try hard at school and did not pass any exams. This makes it harder for them to find a job that is well paid, so might only be able to get work in lower paid jobs such as working in a shop. [3 marks – accurate point with development and exemplification]
4. Some people live in poverty because of their family type. For example, a lone parent family may be more at risk from poverty than a family that has two working parents. Also many lone parent families are headed by women who tend to get paid less than men. Lone parents might live in poverty because they are dependent on benefits as it might be difficult for them to find work with hours suitable or pay for child care when working. [4 marks – relevant, accurate point with development, analysis and exemplification]

Credit reference to aspects of the following

1. Occupations: Some people have well-paid jobs such as professionals, while others may work in lower paid occupations.
2. Recession: Some people might lose their jobs during a recession. The jobs that are normally affected first are lower paid service sector jobs.
3. Long term unemployment: Some groups such as NEETs may never have had a job, and subsequently find it difficult to get a job without experience so remain on benefits and unemployed.
4. Educational attainment: Some people leave school with no or few qualifications, which means they cannot enter further or higher education. This means that they don't have the same earning potential as someone who has gone to college or university so will generally be paid less.
5. Household Structure: A household with one adult is more likely to live in poverty than a household with two adults.
6. Lack of skills: Some people, for example the elderly, may not have skills appropriate to the job market, eg IT skills, so find it difficult to find employment.
7. Ill health: Some people may have long term health problems that mean they cannot work or have to give up work because of poor health, eg cancer sufferers.
8. Social problems: Some people experience social problems such as addictions to drugs and alcohol that may affect their ability to find or hold down a stable job. Other social problems such as involvement in crime may push a person into poverty if they have a criminal record they might find it harder to get a job.
9. Race: Ethnic minorities still experience prejudice and discrimination. Those with language difficulties might find it difficult to get a job, and therefore have difficulty accessing a decent level of income. Poverty rates amongst ethnic minorities are higher than whites.
10. Gender: More women work part-time or in lower paid jobs. Also wage inequality means women are paid on average 15% less than men, so lowering their earning potential.
11. Age and disability: The elderly have higher poverty rates as many rely solely on the state retirement pension. Disability poverty levels are also higher than average poverty rates as 30% of disabled adults live in poverty compared to 20% of the overall adult population.