The government has launched a plan to tackle child poverty in the UK. They aim to stop children from living in bed-and-breakfast accommodations and make childcare easier for families on Universal Credit.
Around 550,000 kids could be lifted out of poverty by 2030. This would be a huge change, possibly the largest in a single Parliament’s term in recorded history. But experts from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) are cautious. They point out that economic uncertainties could affect how much poverty decreases.
Currently, over 172,000 children live in temporary homes in England. The government wants to end the practice of placing families in bed-and-breakfasts for more than six weeks. Unfortunately, recent reports show that over 2,000 children stay longer than that.
Child poverty is at an all-time high, with 4.5 million children—about one in three—living in poverty after housing costs. Many of these children come from working families. Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted, “Too many families struggle without the basics: a secure home, warm meals, and support to make ends meet.”
New measures include ending the two-child benefit cap and expanding free school meals to all kids from Families receiving Universal Credit. The IFS estimates that these changes could significantly reduce child poverty.
However, not everyone is convinced this is enough. Shadow work and pensions secretary Helen Whately argues, “You don’t lift children out of poverty by making the whole country poorer.” She believes that working is the best way to break the cycle of poverty.
James Cassidy, a headteacher, confirms that many children come to school anxious and tired due to their home situations. He sees families struggling, often left to navigate their challenges alone.
The new plans will require local councils to notify schools and health services when a child is placed in temporary accommodation, aiming for a more coordinated support system. The government will continue funding a pilot project to reduce reliance on bed-and-breakfast stays.
Additionally, they plan to build 5,000 homes for more suitable temporary housing by 2030. This effort is backed by several organizations. Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza and homelessness charity Shelter highlight the need for improved living conditions.
While the strategy is a step forward, experts urge that more should be done to tackle the root causes of poverty. The Health Foundation emphasizes the need for a preventative approach.
Pepe Di’Iasio, of the Association of School and College Leaders, agrees the plans will help but stresses the need for broader, coordinated efforts.
To ease the burden on parents, the government plans to extend eligibility for upfront childcare costs, making it easier for new parents receiving Universal Credit to return to work.
As the initiatives unfold, many will be watching closely to see if these plans will make a real difference in the lives of children and families affected by poverty.
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