Sarah Agnew | @sarahagnewphotos via Unsplash
Stephen has welcomed a new national Child Poverty Strategy which aims to lift 550,000 children out of poverty. It delivers the largest reduction in child poverty in one Parliament since records began.
6,870 children in East Hamre expected to benefit from changes including the removal of the two-child limit. In addition, working families will receive extra support with childcare costs, stronger workplace rights, and an increase in the minimum wage to ensure work pays.
The strategy addresses poverty at its roots by reducing the cost of essentials, boosting family incomes, and improving local services so every child has the best start in life. Research shows that children growing up in poverty often do less well in school, face higher unemployment risks, and earn less throughout their lifetimes. Tackling this issue is vital for improving life chances and strengthening communities.
Ministers in the DWP have also announced measures to support working parents and families seeking to return to work. From next year, parents receiving Universal Credit will be eligible for upfront childcare costs when returning from parental leave, helping prevent debt and enabling quicker access to employment.
Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “I’ve seen the devastating impact that years of deepening child poverty has had on families in East Ham and know that today’s strategy putting money back in their pockets, food on the table and warm homes will transform the lives and life chances of our children.
“By cutting the cost of energy bills, tackling unstable temporary accommodation and ending the two child limit over 6,500 children in our community will be lifted out of poverty.”