A new study has highlighted the devastating impact of austerity measures on young people, with over a fifth of children born after 2013 experiencing poverty for at least half their childhood. The research suggests that welfare benefit cuts imposed by Conservative governments in recent years have had a lasting effect on the lives of these 'austerity generation' children.
The study, which analysed data from across England, Scotland and Wales, found that over 22% of children born after 2013 spent at least six years living in poverty. This is despite government claims that austerity measures would only be temporary and would eventually lead to economic growth.
Experts warn that long-term hardship can have severe impacts on physical and mental health, with increased risks of anxiety, depression and other serious conditions. The UK government has introduced various support schemes aimed at helping low-income families, including the Universal Credit system and the Child Poverty Act 2017.