The report notes that 21 percent of the population are living in poverty, that is 14.3 million people, 4.3 million of whom are children. In the Forward to the report, Paul Kissak, Group Chief Executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation said
There are few things more foundational for national life than economic security: the ability of families to afford the essentials, and of children to go to school from a secure, warm home, properly clothed, with food in their bellies.
But for too many families, this is not the reality of their lives. Three in every ten children in the UK are living in poverty. Many live with parents struggling with job insecurity, poor mental and physical health, and the unyielding stress that comes from not having the means to support their family as they would wish. These experiences will stay with many of the next generation for the whole of their lives.
Without determined action, this picture will get worse. During 2024, the cost of living crisis continued, with millions of low-income households going without essentials. Every month that passes sees continuing unacceptable hardship, including new families trapped by the 2 child limit. Our research shows that, on the current trajectory, the rest of this decade will not see progress on either poverty or deep poverty. That is true even with the best economic growth scenario. UK Poverty 2025
The report sets out a range of key actions for change and improvement around employment, housing, and social security
For the full report see here.
ADCS comment on Joseph Rowntree Foundation annual report on child poverty
January 30, 2025
Responding to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s annual report, which focuses on child poverty, Andy Smith, President of the Association of Directors of Children’s Services, said:
“Directors of children’s services want to work with government to see the eradication of child poverty via a comprehensive national strategy that gets to the root causes of deprivation, including high housing costs and benefits that have not kept pace with the actual cost of living, rather than offering short term sticking plasters.
“This report echoes our own recent research on the pressures facing children’s services across England, including the growing role of poor housing and poor parental mental health in contributing to family stress, exacerbated by the current cost-of-living crisis.
“The foundations necessary for children to thrive – safe housing, access to health care, and strong public services – are sadly missing for too many children and families, leaving them vulnerable to crisis. Early intervention and family support are key to preventing long-term harm and reducing future costs, which must be at the heart of the new child poverty strategy for England.”
For the press release see here
Original reporting by Family Law Week