Fact Check: Reports show that some regions of UK and North Ireland are among poorest regions of European continent

Fact Check: "Reports show that some regions of UK and North Ireland are among poorest regions of European continent"

What We Know

Recent reports indicate that certain regions in the UK, particularly Northern Ireland, are experiencing significant economic challenges. According to the Economic Commentary - Spring 2025, Northern Ireland has one of the highest incidences of low-paid jobs in the UK, with a gross income of £869 per week, ranking it as the third lowest in the country. Furthermore, a report from the UK Living Standards Review 2025 highlights that the poorest households in the UK are worse off than those in countries like Slovenia and Malta, suggesting a concerning stagnation in living standards.

Additionally, a Reuters article mentions that nearly two decades of stagnation have left Britain's poorest households struggling, further emphasizing the economic difficulties faced by these regions. A report by RTE indicates that health deprivation is particularly high in Northern Ireland, with nearly 28% of areas ranked among the most deprived in the UK.

Analysis

The claim that some regions of the UK and Northern Ireland are among the poorest in Europe is supported by various credible sources. For instance, the Economic Commentary - Spring 2025 provides statistical evidence of low income levels in Northern Ireland, while the UK Living Standards Review 2025 and Reuters highlight the comparative poverty levels of UK households against those in other European countries.

However, it is important to note that while Northern Ireland and certain areas in the UK rank poorly, the claim lacks specificity regarding which regions are being compared to the entirety of Europe. The London Economic previously reported that the UK has nine out of the ten poorest regions in northern Europe, which aligns with the claim but does not provide a comprehensive view of all European regions.

Moreover, the sources used are generally reliable, including government reports and reputable news outlets. However, some reports may have inherent biases based on their focus on specific socioeconomic issues, which could influence the interpretation of data.

Conclusion

The claim that some regions of the UK and Northern Ireland are among the poorest regions of the European continent is Partially True. While there is substantial evidence supporting the economic struggles of these regions, the claim could benefit from more precise comparisons and context regarding other European regions. The data indicates significant poverty and deprivation levels, particularly in Northern Ireland, but does not fully encompass the broader European landscape.

Sources

1. Economic Commentary - Spring 2025
2. Britain's poorest households worse off than those in ...
3. UK Living Standards Review 2025
4. Deprivation levels higher in Northern Ireland than rest of UK
5. The UK has 9 out of the 10 poorest regions in northern Europe
6. Northern Ireland highest deprivation levels in the UK…
7. 4 April 2025 Poverty in the UK: Statistics
8. UK Living Standards Review 2025