JRF report on child poverty – LGA statement

Responding to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's annual report, which focuses on child poverty and the need for investment in social security alongside economic growth to tackle poverty levels, Cllr Arooj Shah, Chair of the Local Government Association's Children and Young People Board, said:

“No child should ever grow up in poverty and this report underlines the urgency of the Government's Child Poverty Strategy.

“As this report confirms, the most effective way to support low-income families and lift them out of poverty is through an adequately resourced national safety net.

“This needs to be alongside sustainable long-term funding for vital local services provided by councils, such as advice services, local welfare assistance, housing and employment support.

“We are engaging with the Government on its proposed strategy and working with them to ensure that every child has the best possible start in life.”