Half price bus and tram travel a major help for London’s poorest families

Commenting on today’s announcement by the Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone, Child Poverty Action Group’s Chief Executive, Kate Green, said:

“Central London has the highest rate of child poverty in the country, with half of children living below the poverty line. Affordable travel is a vital part of social inclusion and this move will make London a more inclusive community for its poorest families.

“Two groups of families most vulnerable to child poverty are those with disabled people and those headed by lone parents. As the main recipients of Income Support, these families will be greatly helped.

“An adequate income is always the best way of lifting people out of poverty, and transport needs should be fully taken into account when setting benefit levels. But while Income Support remains paid at such poor rates, this kind of targeted support will always be welcome.”

Notes to Editors

• The Greater London Authority is launching a scheme to reduce bus and tram fares for those in receipt of Income Support from July for further detail see www.london.gov.uk
• Child Poverty Action Group’s Chief Executive, Kate Green, is a Commissioner for the London Child Poverty Commission
• Child Poverty Action Group is a Member of the End Child Poverty Campaign

For further information please contact:
Paul Dornan
Tel. 020 7812 5216 or 07816 90930
pdornan@cpag.org.uk