Overall, 42% of constituencies in the UK have a child poverty rate higher than the national average of 31%, according to new analysis by Loughborough University
At least a quarter of children are in poverty in two-thirds of areas across the UK, grim analysis shows today.
Overall, 42% of constituencies in the UK have a child poverty rate higher than the national average of 31%, according to new analysis by Loughborough University.
That includes Keir Starmer’s London constituency Holborn and St Pancras, which has a child poverty rate of 47%. Some 80% of the PM’s Cabinet represent constituencies with higher than average rates.
Constituencies with the highest child poverty rates in the UK include Birmingham Ladywood, Dewsbury and Batley and Bradford West. In the North East, West Midlands and in Wales, around nine out of ten constituencies have a child poverty rate higher than one in four.
READ MORE: DWP chief Liz Kendall to face Labour MPs as government braces for benefits revolt
Experts found an “extremely high” correlation between child poverty and the two-child benefit limit.
The End Child Poverty Coalition, which is made up of over 135 organisations including child welfare groups, social justice groups, faith groups, trade unions and others, has today called for the policy to be scrapped in full.
It piles more pressure on Mr Starmer, who is facing demands to scrap the Tory-era policy to lift thousands of kids out of poverty.
Experts have said ditching the policy, which restricts parents from claiming Universal Credit or Child Tax Credits for any children beyond their first two, would be the most effective way to live around 350,000 kids out of poverty.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, who is co-chairing the government’s Child Poverty Taskforce, last month said scrapping the controversial two-child benefit limit is an option “on the table”.
The annual analysis by Loughborough University uses DWP figures and looks at poverty rates after housing costs, which is seen as a more accurate assessment of family income.
Dan Paskins, of Save the Children and the End Child Poverty Coalition, said: “Each year this data presents a bleak picture of life for the UK’s children. A record number are now in poverty and this is under the noses of our MPs, particularly Cabinet members.
“The time for action is now, and the Comprehensive Spending Review, and forthcoming child poverty strategy should involve bold action.”
Liv, 21, from Liverpool, who is an End Child Poverty Coalition Ambassador, said: “Growing up in poverty is relentless, and it’s never just about money – it is about isolation, shame, and missed opportunities.
“A proper government strategy on child poverty could give us hope. It shows that our experience is heard, and that there’s a commitment to building a fairer society where no child has to grow up feeling less than others just because of their circumstances.”
Full list of local authorities’ child poverty rates (after housing costs):
Region
Local authority
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