Ensuring every child in the UK has an equal start in life is a core British principle. It is vital that children have the opportunity to reach their full potential based on their abilities, rather than being hindered by their background or situation.
We often tell our own children, “Work hard and you can accomplish anything.” However, when many children are raised in poverty, these words do not always hold true. This is why I am pleased that our strategy to combat child poverty will elevate more than half a million children out of poverty. This is the ultimate goal of the Labour Party – a moral duty. We addressed this issue during the previous Labour administration, and my government will continue to do the same.
The situation left by the Conservative Party is truly shameful. During their tenure, an additional 900,000 children were left to endure poverty. How can this be considered just? Consider the human toll – missed meals, cold bedrooms, ill-fitting or worn-out school uniforms. Should any of this be happening in our country? The answer is a resounding no.
Labour has taken steps to provide free school meals to half a million hungry children, combat exorbitant baby-formula costs, and eliminate the two-child benefit cap, which alone lifts 450,000 children out of poverty.
Furthermore, poverty has evolved under the Conservatives’ leadership. Some still mistakenly believe that poverty only affects those without jobs, which is not reflective of the reality in modern Britain. Today, three-quarters of impoverished children come from working families – families that are diligently working but struggling to make ends meet due to insufficient wages.
Having experienced financial struggles growing up, I recall sitting with my family at the kitchen table, sorting through bills in the high-priced 1970s. We couldn’t afford them all, leading to our phone being disconnected – a time before mobile phones existed!
All our efforts to combat child poverty are influenced by this background. Labour has expanded free childcare, introduced free breakfast clubs in schools nationwide, reduced energy bills for low-income households by £150 – £300, and will raise the minimum wage next April. This ensures fair compensation for caregivers, cleaners, retail workers, and others deserving of a wage increase.
This approach benefits working individuals, children, and the future of Britain. Addressing poverty is not only a moral imperative but also a wise economic investment, as it enhances the likelihood of children securing good jobs or training opportunities and alleviates strain on the healthcare system.
Recently, nurses at a hospital highlighted the impact of poverty on children they treat. Such circumstances should not exist in modern Britain. Labour remains committed to eradicating child poverty, as the difference in approach between Labour and Tory governments is stark – while Tories have allowed poverty to escalate, Labour has taken measures to reduce it and ensure children have an equitable start in life.
Prime Minister
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