When Nothing Works: From Cost of Living to Foundational Liveability

The UK faces a deeper crisis of foundational liveability, with squeezed residual incomes, failing public services, and decaying social infrastructure. This book offers a new approach to tackling the UK's problems, embracing a political practice of adaptive reuse that works around the constraints of mainstream policies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

In the current climate of Britain, it is undeniable that a sense of disillusionment and frustration pervades the nation. The mounting inflation and widespread industrial action serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the UK. While traditional solutions such as economic growth and higher wages have been pursued by mainstream politicians, they are simply not enough to address the deeper crisis of foundational liveability that the country is grappling with.

The so-called "cost of living crisis" is merely the surface-level manifestation of a more profound issue. The UK faces a dual threat of squeezed residual incomes and failing public services, coupled with the decaying social infrastructure that supports its citizens. This multifaceted crisis requires a comprehensive and innovative approach that goes beyond the limitations of mainstream policies.

To overcome this challenge, this book presents a novel model for the three pillars of liveability: disposable and residual income, essential services, and social infrastructure. By examining these pillars in detail, the book challenges the assumptions of both the left and the right in the UK political classes. It offers a fresh perspective on the economically visible and politically actionable solutions that can help alleviate the suffering of the British people.

The book begins by exploring the concept of disposable and residual income, which are crucial in determining the well-being of individuals and families. It highlights the growing inequality in the UK, with the wealthiest individuals and corporations benefiting at the expense of the middle and lower classes. The author argues that the focus on economic growth alone is insufficient to address this issue, as it fails to address the root causes of inequality.

Instead, the book proposes a model of adaptive reuse that works around the constraints imposed by mainstream policies. This approach involves repurposing existing resources and infrastructure to create new opportunities for economic growth and social mobility. By leveraging technology, innovation, and community engagement, the book suggests that the UK can create a more sustainable and inclusive economy that benefits all its citizens.

The second pillar of liveability, essential services, is also examined in detail. The book highlights the decline of public services such as healthcare, education, and social welfare in the UK. It argues that the privatization of these services has led to a lack of accountability, reduced quality, and increased costs for the public. The author proposes a model of public-private partnerships that can ensure the provision of high-quality essential services while also promoting efficiency and innovation.

Social infrastructure is the third pillar of liveability, and it encompasses the physical and social environment that supports individuals and communities. The book argues that the neglect of social infrastructure has contributed to the decline of many urban areas and rural communities. It proposes a model of investment in social infrastructure that includes affordable housing, public transportation, green spaces, and cultural institutions. By investing in these areas, the book suggests that the UK can create a more vibrant and resilient society that is better equipped to face the challenges of the future.

In conclusion, When Nothing Works presents a compelling analysis of the UK's problems and a fresh approach to tackling them. By embracing a political practice of adaptive reuse that works around the constraints of mainstream policies, the book offers a new model for the three pillars of liveability. This model challenges the assumptions of both the left and the right in the UK political classes and provides a roadmap for creating a more sustainable and inclusive economy that benefits all its citizens. It is a timely and essential read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges facing the UK and the potential for positive change.

Weight: 342g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526173713