29 October 2014

International report shows NZ is struggling with child poverty - bold action needed

A report by UNICEF International shows that child poverty rates in New Zealand have scarcely changed since 2008 – this stands in contrast to a number of other countries that managed to significantly reduce child poverty in this time, including Australia.

The report investigated the impact of the global economic crisis on child wellbeing in 41 OECD and EU countries. While the report revealed a strong link between the recession and decline in child wellbeing, it also showed that amid this crisis, many countries still managed to limit child poverty.

“This is a powerful reminder that child poverty is not inevitable and with the right policies can be eliminated” says Lisa Woods, Every Child Count’s Executive Officer.

"Every Child Counts is pleased that child poverty is a priority for this Government. However, to make a difference we need to see systematic and coordinated action. Too often successive Governments have taken a piecemeal approach to policies for children, when we know from research that ending child poverty requires comprehensive action across a range of areas, including ensuring adequate income, affordable housing, supporting parents, strengthening communities, and providing accessible and quality early childhood education.

“As a first step we urge the Government to commit to an action plan, including targets and measures. The report reminds us that by taking bold action, we can make a difference and end child poverty” says Lisa Woods.

The report can be downloaded from the UNICEF New Zealand website: www.unicef.org.nz

Every Child Counts is a coalition of organisations working to improve the status and wellbeing of NZ children, driven by Barnardos, Plunket, UNICEF, Save the Children, and Mana Ririki. www.everychildcounts.org.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media