Government launches new tool to help you talk to kids about poverty, without the stigma

The government has published a child-friendly version of its child poverty strategy, designed to help you talk to children about money worries and reduce the stigma many families feel.

Whether you’re a parent, carer or teacher, the resource aims to make these conversations clearer, kinder and easier.

What’s the child poverty strategy?

The government’s child poverty strategy was released in December 2025. It sets out plans to lift more than 500,000 children out of poverty by 2030 by tackling the root causes.

The focus is on three key areas:

• raising family incomes
• reducing everyday costs
• strengthening support in local communities

Some of the main measures include:

• expanding free school meals and breakfast clubs
• extending funded childcare for working parents
• investing more in family hubs
• scrapping the two-child benefit limit from April

What’s the new child-friendly version?

The new version is written specifically for children, using simple language and clear explanations.

It’s designed to help you:

• talk to children about why some families struggle financially
• explain what poverty means in a way they can understand
• reassure children about the help that's available

For many parents and teachers, starting these conversations can feel difficult. The guide gives you a structured, age-appropriate way to do it.

How many children are affected by poverty?

Government figures suggest around ten children in a typical class of 30 are growing up in poverty.

For some children, this guide may help them understand their own experiences. For others, it helps them better understand what their classmates might be going through.

The aim is to reduce stigma and make it easier for children to talk to a trusted adult if they’re worried.

How schools and families can use it

Many schools already teach about inequality and social justice. This guide provides a simple, factual resource teachers can use to support those lessons.

It helps by:

• Explaining what families need to be healthy and happy, such as a warm home, healthcare and a supportive community.
• Setting out what support the government is providing to tackle child poverty.
• Asking discussion questions like: “What do you think families could do if they had a bit more money each week?”
• Providing clear definitions and links to further help.

If you need help with school costs

If you’re struggling with the cost of school, support is available.

Many local councils and charities offer grants that can help you pay for things like:

• school uniforms
• transport to school
• essential items
• educational equipment

If you’re unsure what help you might be able to get, it’s worth checking with your local council, school or a family support charity.