Budget 2025: how inflation and the two-child benefit cap has increased poverty

The GuardianSunday, November 23, 2025 at 1:47:39 PM
Budget 2025: how inflation and the two-child benefit cap has increased poverty
  • A recent visit to Kent highlights the increasing struggles of families facing rising food costs, with many turning to food banks that are experiencing heightened demand and dwindling donations. One mother from Herne Bay expressed her despair over her inability to meet her children's needs, illustrating the harsh realities of living on benefits in the current economic climate.
  • This situation underscores the broader impact of inflation and the two-child benefit cap, which have contributed to a significant rise in poverty levels, particularly among families with multiple children. The emotional toll on parents is evident, as they grapple with feelings of inadequacy while trying to provide for their families.
  • The challenges faced by families in Kent reflect a wider crisis affecting various regions, where disparities in council tax and living costs exacerbate financial strain. Critics have pointed out the chaotic nature of the current council tax system, which can lead to unfair burdens on lower-income households, further complicating the financial landscape for those already struggling.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Rachel Reeves promises to ‘grip the cost of living’ in autumn budget
NeutralFinancial Markets
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to unveil her second budget, aiming to address the cost of living crisis by freezing income tax thresholds and rail fares, while proposing a multibillion-pound tax-raising package. This comes as the UK economy faces significant challenges, with a financial gap of approximately £20 billion needing to be addressed.
Fire alert: the fake ‘Amazon TV stick’ that opens the door to fraudsters
NegativeFinancial Markets
A warning has been issued regarding counterfeit Amazon Fire TV sticks that are being sold online, which are linked to a significant increase in fraud cases among illegal streamers. Reports indicate that two out of five users of these modified USB sticks have experienced data theft and cybercrime as a result of their use.
Relief for rail passengers as fare freeze in England announced for 2026
PositiveFinancial Markets
The UK government has announced a freeze on rail fares in England for 2026, marking the first such measure in 30 years. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to confirm this decision in her upcoming budget speech, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on commuters and support economic growth amid rising living costs.
Bad season of bird flu in UK hits supply of Christmas turkeys
NegativeFinancial Markets
The UK is experiencing a severe season of bird flu, significantly impacting the supply of Christmas turkeys, chickens, and ducks, with 5% of the seasonal flock already culled. Industry insiders indicate that the situation is worse than last year, leading to tighter availability of poultry products ahead of the festive season.
Mortgage brokers say house buying at risk from surveyor ‘down valuing’
NegativeFinancial Markets
An increase in property down valuations, particularly in London and the south-east, is causing significant disruptions in the housing market, with some homes being valued at 10% or more below the agreed sale price. Mortgage experts warn that this trend is 'turning deals and lives upside down.'
‘The French people want to save us’: help pours in for glassmaker Duralex
PositiveFinancial Markets
Duralex, the renowned French glassmaker, successfully raised €5 million in emergency funding within just five hours and 40 minutes after appealing to the public for support. The fundraising effort quickly exceeded expectations, with pledges surpassing €19 million within 48 hours, highlighting the brand's nostalgic value and strong consumer loyalty.
‘Superfluous consumerism’: adult Advent calendar trend alarms green groups
NegativeFinancial Markets
The trend of adult Advent calendars, which include items ranging from luxury beauty products to instant mashed potato, has been criticized by environmental groups as a form of 'superfluous consumerism' that contributes to excessive waste. Campaigners argue that the individual packaging and potential for unwanted items exacerbate the ongoing waste crisis.
Bro boost: women say their LinkedIn traffic increases if they pretend to be men
NegativeFinancial Markets
A collective experiment revealed that women experienced a significant increase in their LinkedIn traffic when they altered their profiles to present as male and adopted 'bro-coding' language. This change led to greater engagement, despite LinkedIn's denial of favoring male posts.