Shocking stats reveal that over 75,000 Welsh kids are caught up in the turmoil caused by the controversial two-child benefit cap. This policy, introduced back in 2017, limits child tax credit and universal credit claims to just two children per family, hitting hardworking families hard.
With Chancellor Rachel Reeves considering scrapping this cap in the upcoming autumn budget, pressure is mounting. In constituencies like Clwyd North, nearly 20% of children are feeling the impact, while figures in Newport East aren’t far behind. It’s a troubling picture across many Welsh areas with similar stats in Cardiff East, Aberafan Maesteg, Swansea West, Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney, and Torfaen.
Elsewhere, Hackney North and Stoke Newington lead with 42% of kids affected, showing that this isn’t just a Welsh issue – it’s a UK-wide concern. Campaigners warn that without action, child poverty will continue to rise. Joseph Howes of the End Child Poverty Coalition stresses that without lifting this cap, efforts to tackle child poverty are doomed to fail.
With November 26 set as a deadline for senior cabinet recommendations to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, all eyes are on the government to pull this policy lever and spark meaningful change. Will it happen? Stay tuned as we follow this crucial issue.