The number of children living in absolute poverty has risen for a second consecutive year by 300,000, according to government figures.
According to the Department for Work and Pensions latest household below average income statistics, “the largest increases in low-income measures are seen for children, with absolute measures showing the most increase”.
The data also highlights increases in income inequality and a reduction of the percentage of individuals in food secure households for all income groups, as nearly a fifth of the population struggle with basic needs.
Between 2022 and 2023, more than 600,000 people in total fell into absolute poverty, bringing the total to 12 million, including 3.6 million children. Additionally, 46% of all families with three or more children were in poverty.
