Health inequalities: impact of financial insecurity on health

Income and financial security are key determinants of health across the lifespan and contribute substantially to widening health inequalities. Individuals experiencing low income, debt, insecure employment or fuel and food poverty are more likely to develop long-term conditions, experience poorer mental health and have reduced life expectancy compared with more affluent populations. For healthcare assistants, understanding the relationship between financial hardship and health is essential to delivering compassionate, person-centred care. This article explores how income shapes access to nutritious food, safe housing, heating, transport, digital connectivity and healthcare services, and examines the impact of financial stress on physical and psychological wellbeing.