Great progress has been made in tackling child poverty in the city following the Milton Keynes Child Poverty Commission suggesting a way forward, a recent report finds.

Last year, the Commission found almost 23,000 children were living in poverty in Milton Keynes. The Commission challenged local people, organisations and services to tackle child poverty with some initiative projects.

The Council’s Cabinet will next month receive a report from the Commission that sets out the progress that has been made to tackle child poverty, including:

• Working to open over 10 community food larders in partnership with SOFEA, Community Fridge and Foodbank Xtra.
• Launching a school uniform recycling scheme, where uniforms can be bought at a reduced cost.
• Piloting a childcare deposit scheme to support parents and carers who want to work, but struggle with upfront childcare costs.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Jane Carr, Cabinet Member for Tackling Inequality and Child Poverty, said:“The number of families in poverty in our country is an issue that the government needs to get a grip on, but we’ve been fighting here in Milton Keynes to make sure our vulnerable families receive help and support.”

 “I’m proud of the start that the Commission, including the Council, partner organisations and local communities, have made so far, but the work isn’t done yet and I look forward to more achievements in the future.”

Labour Councillor Zoe Nolan, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said: “While the Child Poverty Commission and the Progressive Alliance have been working tirelessly to reduce poverty in Milton Keynes, the Tory government has made the job harder. The government’s £20 cut to Universal Credit will impact 22,840 families across Milton Keynes, and it could force 500,000 people throughout the country into poverty.”

 “It could not come at a worse time, as food and energy prices rise right before Christmas.”

 “Our MPs need to stand up for the struggling residents of Milton Keynes, and fight for this heartless cut to be delayed.”