Save the Children says rise in child poverty is unacceptable

Peter Bryson, Acting Head of Country for Save the Children said:

“It’s unacceptable that 28% of young children in Northern Ireland are growing up in poverty.  Today’s figures show an increase in child poverty of 2%. We know that children under five are more likely to live in poverty than their older peers. The legacy for these children starts in the early years and will be lifelong.

Earlier this month, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child expressed concern at the high child poverty rates across the UK, and noted that children in Northern Ireland are among those worst affected. These new figures substantiate those serious concerns.

Every child deserves the best start in life. But in Northern Ireland today, too many young children are going without the support they need to reach their potential. They’re falling behind before they even get to school and that puts their life chances at risk. We know the early years are the ‘golden years’ for changing these odds. The Northern Ireland Executive must focus on early investment in children’s futures, by  offering  better support to parents and ensuring all early years staff have what they need to deliver world-class services for children.”

Links to Reports:

NI Poverty Bulletin 2014 – 2015 - https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/communities/ni-poverty-bulletin-201415.pdf
UK HBAI Figures - https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/households-below-average-income-hbai--2