Government data released today shows around one in four children living in the southeast are affected by poverty.

For the first time, Westminster has gathered child poverty figures that include housing costs broken down by individual constituencies and local authorities across the country.

The statistics however reflect earlier conditions, meaning the impact of the Government’s Tackling Child Poverty Strategy has not yet been captured in the numbers.

The 2024/25 data reveals that 23 percent of children in the southeast are living in poverty, compared to a UK-wide average of 27 percent.

This could lead to households turning to food banks for meals, using baby banks to obtain essential items like clothing and nappies for their children, or living in properties that are unsafe or lack proper heating.

Among local authorities, Oxford has the highest child poverty level, with 22.9 percent of children affected.

Within Oxfordshire’s parliamentary constituencies, Oxford East shows the greatest proportion of children living in poverty at 26.1 percent.

The End Child Poverty Coalition is urging the government to deliver a sustained, long-term pledge and allocate funding to reduce child poverty levels.

Sophie Livingstone, who chairs the End Child Poverty Coalition and serves as chief executive of Little Village baby banks, said no child should face poverty. She noted many parents are finding it extremely difficult because the current system is not providing adequate support. She added that childhood should be characterised by safety and opportunity rather than worry about basic needs like food.