Inequality and deprivation in an affluent community: A case study of the livelihood of low-income households in Central and Western District, Hong Kong

Vincent Wan-ping Lee, Henry Wai-hang Ling*, Jiu-li Xu

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articlepeer-review

    Abstract

    The Central and Western District (C&W District) of Hong Kong is often associated with prosperity. However, some families in the C&W District, like those in other areas of Hong Kong, face poverty and deprivation. This study implemented purposive sampling and the constructivist grounded theory to investigate the perceptions of and daily challenges faced by underprivileged residents and community stakeholders in the district. This study conducted individual or small group in-depth interviews with 40 residents in 2019. The results revealed that unaffordable housing and poor living environments impeded family cohesiveness. Young people lacked sufficient academic support. Under the government's latest policy direction of “targeted poverty alleviation”, this study recommends that government departments and relevant social stakeholders proactively explore the development of social housing in the district. In addition, community volunteers with English proficiency and other professional skills should be recruited to offer free or affordable tutoring services for underprivileged students.

    Original languageEnglish
    Article number100960
    Number of pages8
    JournalSocial Sciences and Humanities Open
    Volume10
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 25 May 2024

    Scopus Subject Areas

    • Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
    • Decision Sciences (miscellaneous)
    • Psychology (miscellaneous)

    User-Defined Keywords

    • Family relationships
    • Housing problems
    • Inequality
    • Social advancement
    • Wealth disparity

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