Ending child poverty
The number of children in poverty is set to reach five million this year. This means young people around you are going to school hungry, getting bullied for wearing an old uniform, or missing out on activities with friends. These young people have to work extra hard to stay happy, motivated and focused on the future.
But being from a poor background shouldn’t hold a child back. We work so all families can afford to keep their children healthy, happy and hopeful, even when money is tight.
What is child poverty?
In short, child poverty means parents can’t afford the basics of food, clothing and shelter.
There are millions of children living in poverty who have at least one employed parent. Low paid jobs and zero-hour contracts mean many working families live hand to mouth. The rising cost of living will have pushed even more over the edge.
How many children are living in poverty in the UK?
4.3 million
children live in poverty in the UK
3 in 10
children live in poverty
107%
increase in children receiving emergency food in 2020
our work ending child poverty
Working to end child poverty
We work hard so poverty doesn’t impact children’s futures. So young people leaving care aren’t instantly hit with council tax bills, so school uniforms don’t break the bank, and so families get emergency support in crisis.
We also look out for young people we work with in our services. If life is tough at home, we make sure they have what they need to be healthy and happy. So they are able to overcome life's obstacles and stay focused on what matters – enjoying themselves and staying positive.
In 2024, we campaigned for the government to extend the Household Support Fund, a vital support line for over 30 million families in the UK. In September, it was extended for at least six more months.
Cutting the cost of school uniforms
School uniforms and PE kits are expensive. Many families can’t afford them. If a child goes to school with the wrong uniform, they may be bullied, sent home or excluded.
We campaigned to cut the cost of school uniforms. After seven years, it has finally become law. State schools must prioritise costs when setting school uniform policies. Children can now look forward to school without worrying about the family being able to afford the right uniform.
School uniform statistics
2/3
parents with children in secondary schoolfind the cost of school uniforms prohibitive despite legislative efforts to make them more affordable.
£422
Average cost of a secondary school uniform in 2023.
Over 50%
of secondary school parents must purchase at least three school logo branded items.
Campaigns that make a difference
Thanks to our campaigners, we've made huge changes for children across the UK. Free school meals, affordable uniforms, financial support for families in crisis. We won't stop until we've built a society for all children.
making life fairer for care leavers
Making sure care leavers don't pay council tax
For young people leaving care and moving into their own place, it’s exciting. There’s lots to think about - what plants to get, what jobs to go for, what bills they need to pay. But without lessons on managing money, big tax bills can come as a shock, and can lead to debt. This holds them back from being independent and enjoying life after care.
That’s why we’ve been calling on councils to exempt care leavers from paying council tax up until the age of 25. So when they turn 18, they aren't suddenly hit with a big bill as a birthday present. Instead, they can get used to managing money and living independently, free from debt.
The crisis costing children their childhoods
The crisis costing children their childhoods
Anthea works with boys and young men at risk of or are being criminally exploited. She sees firsthand how the cost-of-living crisis is increasing the chances of these young people being groomed into criminal groups.
Give the gift of hope
Our online store gives you the chance to purchase gifts or experiences for children we’re supporting through our youth services.
