Child poverty still on Welsh Government agenda

Addressing Children in Wales’s Child Poverty Conference, the Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed the Welsh Government’s commitment to eradicating child poverty.

He said the focus on employability, early years and empowerment has put far greater emphasis on those areas which support children to have the best start in life.

This approach has seen increasing investment in initiatives which are key to preventing and reducing poverty, delivering a more equal and prosperous Wales.

While recognising that more needed to be done the Cabinet Secretary said the Welsh Government is making progress towards achieving its child poverty objectives in a number of areas.

Carl Sargeant said:

“Employment in Wales is close to a record high and the number of children living in workless households is at an all time low. We have reduced the gap in educational attainment between pupils eligible for Free School Meals and those who are not, exceeding our target for pupils achieving the expected level at Foundation Phase.”

The Cabinet Secretary said early childhood experiences are important for a child’s long-term development and their achievements in later life which is why a focus on early intervention and prevention is important, particularly in respect of Adverse Childhood Experiences.

Carl Sargeant added:

“Tackling poverty is the responsibility of every Cabinet Secretary and every Minister. While we do not underestimate the scale of our challenge, we must also recognise the opportunities available.”