JRF report highlights need to end cycle of disadvantage

A new study published by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation today starkly shows why the cycle of disadvantage must be ended, according to the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG).

The research undertaken by Jo Blanden and Steve Gibbons of the Centre for Economic Performance at the LSE demonstrates that there is a strong link between childhood poverty and its persistence across adulthood.

Responding to the report, CPAG's Head of Policy and Research Paul Dornan said:

“This report shows just how important it is to end child poverty once and for all. Failing to tackle poverty in childhood leads to persistent poverty in adulthood, meaning that today’s poor child all too often becomes tomorrow’s poor parent.

“For instance, the poorest children who are entitled to free school meals are still half as likely to get five good GCSEs as those who are not and we know that low educational attainment disadvantages people in the labour market.

“Breaking the cycle of disadvantage is vital if we are to create a fairer society and genuinely open up opportunity for all. This means continuing to invest in tax credits and child benefit to ensure that people have an adequate income, alongside a good education, decent housing and high-quality healthcare.”

For further information please contact:
Alex Belardinelli
CPAG Press Officer
Tel. 020 7812 5216 or 07816 909302
abelardinelli@cpag.org.uk