Barnardo's responds to JRF poverty report

Published on
29 January 2025

A stronger economy is likely to make little difference to the poorest UK households unless there is targeted support to tackle poverty, a report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation has warned.

Barnardo’s chief executive Lynn Perry said:

“Millions of children are living in homes where parents struggle to afford to keep the fridge stocked and the power on. Growing up in poverty can have a devastating impact on a child’s life, affecting their learning, mental and physical health long into adulthood, while limiting their life chances.  

“Warm words won’t be enough to keep children free from the cold and hunger – but today’s report shows that serious government action can lift children out of poverty.  If the government wants to show that it is serious about alleviating the suffering of children in poverty, it must commit to ending the unfair two-child limit on benefit payments and ensure that families can afford the essentials like food and heating. Children deserve immediate and long-term solutions to give them the best chance in life.”

Clicking 'Quick exit' allows you to leave the site immediately. It will take you to the BBC weather page.