There are an estimated 14.3 million people living in poverty in the UK today, of which 4.8 million are children which is 22% of children. The Child Poverty Rate stands at 34% - significantly above the poverty rate for the whole population.  

Around 600,000 more children are living in relative poverty compared to eight years ago - a number that is projected to increase markedly as a result of Covid-19, the Social Mobility Commission has warned.  

Only 26.6% of children eligible for Free School Meals receive five good GCSEs including English and mathematics, compared with 54.2% of non-free school meals pupils, giving them significantly poorer life chances into adulthood.  

Child poverty is estimated to cost the economy £13 billion annually and cost the public sector £12 billion annually.  

This event brings together Government, public sector and voluntary sector agencies to discuss the pertinent issues relating to addressing child poverty. It examines a comprehensive range of issues such as housing, food poverty, education and health and the challenges they face in these unprecedented times.