As there is no agreed definition of Poverty it may be described as, referring to a person’s material conditions, means of support and social position.

 

Absolute Poverty describes all humans as having the same basic needs and so when these are not met it can be described as poverty. “Poverty includes a lack of the resources to meet such needs. Physical needs are usually seen as the most important-individuals need essentials such as food, clothing and shelter in order to stay alive and healthy” (Taylor, 2000, p.171).

 

Relative Poverty relates to a poverty line which may move according to a change in social expenditure, expectations and living standards. The needs of people may not merely be shaped by physical necessity but also cultural expectations:

Peter Townsend (1979) states that “individuals can be said to be in poverty when they lack the resources to obtain the types of diet, participate in activities and have living conditions and amenities which are customary, or at least widely encouraged or approved, in the societies which they belong” (Taylor, 2000, p. 173).

Comparative need can be described as an inconsistency between groups with similar characteristics, it arises when these groups do not receive similar services to each other, or when one is in need and another is not. This has been used to draw comparisons in areas of deprivation; Glasgow Health’s “Black Report”.
Normative need is a discrepancy between an individual/group’s present state and a given norm; which is generally set by an expert such as local authorities and housing standards.
Felt need is an individual desire or want that an individual has (feels) to improve either his or her life.
Expressed need may be described as; a felt need becomes an expressed need when people put what they want into action, people can feel need which they do not express and express need they do not feel.