The number of children living in poverty in the UK has reached a record high, according to data published by the Department of Work and Pensions on Thursday. The latest figures reveal that nearly 4.5 million children were in low-income households by the end of March 2024—the highest level since records began in 2002-2003.
This marks a sharp increase from the previous record of 4.33 million in March 2023, highlighting growing concerns over the impact of economic pressures on vulnerable families. A household is classified as being in relative poverty if its income falls below 60% of the national median, which currently stands at £337 ($435) per week.
The alarming statistics come in the wake of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government announcing cuts to disability welfare payments, as part of broader spending reductions. According to government projections, these welfare reforms could push an additional 50,000 children into poverty over the next five years.
Beyond child poverty, the data indicates that 21% of the UK population—approximately 14.25 million people—are living in poverty. While this represents a slight decline from the previous year, the overall situation remains dire. The UK has been grappling with the lasting effects of the cost-of-living crisis, exacerbated by high inflation and surging energy and food prices following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Backlash Against Government Policies
The surge in poverty levels has sparked fierce criticism from charities and social justice groups. Save the Children described the findings as “a source of national shame”, attributing them to “political choices” rather than unavoidable economic conditions.
Alison Garnham, CEO of the Child Poverty Action Group, warned that the government’s own pledge to reduce child poverty “will crash and burn unless urgent action is taken”. She called for the removal of the two-child benefit cap and the reversal of recent welfare cuts introduced by Finance Minister Rachel Reeves.
Defending the government’s fiscal strategy, Reeves highlighted plans to save £5 billion annually in disability benefits while emphasizing alternative measures aimed at supporting families. These include free school breakfasts and an increase in the minimum wage, set to take effect from April 1.
Despite these efforts, critics argue that the current policies risk deepening inequality and worsening the financial strain on low-income households. With poverty rates at historic highs, pressure is mounting on the government to rethink its welfare approach and prioritize support for struggling families.