There were more than 4 million children living in poverty in the United Kingdom in 2019/20¹ with data showing parts of Central and South Bristol to have more than 25% of the children living in low-income families². Child poverty rates were already rising on an alarmingly fast note, as the numbers rose by more than 500,000 in the UK in general in the last 5 years. Nonetheless, the very fact that the impacts of the pandemic after 2020 are yet to be fully acknowledged and measured, underlines that we can only imagine the extent to which this issue has worsened.
Work & The Cycle of Poverty
75% of the children in poverty have at least one adult who is working in their household, highlighting the inadequacy of their wages when it comes to trying to keep their family out of the vicious cycle of poverty. Having low-paid jobs with minimum work benefits usually leads to the caregiver working extra hours, as well as the child having to contribute to the family income. This proves that work does not guarantee a way out of the cycle.
Local analysis in Bristol
The image below shows the percentages of children living in relative low-income families in 2019/20, demonstrating the four wards where 1 out of 4 children live in relative low-income families, namely, Lawrence Hill (40%), Central (29%), Hartcliffe and Withywood (29%) and Filwood (26%).
How can you take action
The distressingly fast rate in which child poverty is rising not only in the UK, but in Bristol specifically should be enough information to start taking this matter more seriously than ever, before the devastating impacts of the pandemic become irreversible. If you agree and want to make your own contribution to help tackle this issue, Ignite Life can provide endless opportunities. By fundraising for us, donating to our services, or volunteering for us, you too can play your part in raising awareness and supporting those who are affected by child poverty, mental health problems, struggles in education and many more.
References:
¹https://www.endchildpoverty.org.uk/local-child-poverty-data-2014-15-2019-20/
²https://www.bristol.gov.uk/documents/20182/3849453/JSNA+2019+-+Child+Poverty+
