In-work poverty and the search for decent work for women in Wales: A literature review

Abstract

Rising levels of female employment have made the UK labour market almost unrecognisable from that of five decades ago. Yet, whilst women’s contribution to the Welsh economy is growing, disparity between men’s and women’s participation in, and treatment by the labour market remains. A more equal labour market is important for both women themselves and for the economy. Government estimates indicate that by reducing the gender pay gap the UK economy would benefit by £150 billion. Similarly, if female employment levels in the UK matched those in other countries, the UK GDP would be raised by 9%. This makes a strong case for a more gender focused labour market policy to respond to the increasingly de-regulated labour market that disproportionately affects women more adversely than men.