Welsh Government
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Breaking the cycle of child poverty
Eradicating child poverty is a Welsh Assembly Government priority, and through short and long term schemes, the cycle is being broken, so that under-achievement as a result of poverty does not get passed on, generation to generation.
First Minister Rhodri Morgan and Minister for Children and Education, Jane Hutt highlighted this week, whilst speaking at the International Forum on Child Welfare, the many strategies and initiatives which are in place to tackle poverty in Wales at different levels.
Through our Flying Start initiative we are providing quality part-time childcare for two year olds, health visiting, parenting programmes and basic skills support. Flying Start is also putting substantial extra funding into care for children from birth to three in the most deprived targeted communities in Wales. This recognises the evidence that children within areas of multiple deprivation suffer additional effects of disadvantage and that support in the early years of a child’s life can significantly influence positive outcomes in the medium and long term.
It is through education however that the most impact can be made. The newly introduced Foundation Phase curriculum for 3 to 7-year-olds will ensure that each individual child’s needs are met, whatever their background and stage of development. Children will be allowed to progress at their own unique pace through a broad, relevant and holistic curriculum which will greatly reduce the risk of any children being left behind or disengaged. The Welsh Assembly Government is also making funding available for all primary schools to provide their pupils with the opportunity of a free healthy breakfast at school each day, to ensure that everybody has the opportunity to start the day alert and engaged.
Our 14-19 Learning pathways are based around the same principle. By tailoring the curriculum to each individual’s need with more options for practical learning experiences, those people who would usually be put off continued learning can thrive and build a promising future.
Through our Basic Skills Strategy and the recently launched Genesis Wales 2 project we are providing assistance to adults, to give them back control of their lives, so that they can lift themselves and their families out of poverty. Employment is still inarguably the best tool to combat poverty. By removing barriers that people may have to accessing employment or training, by providing assistance with childcare, transport or further learning, people can equip themselves in the best possible way to secure a more fulfilled and prosperous future.
The Welsh Assembly Government is committed to doing all within the powers available to help achieve the milestone to halve child poverty by 2010, and the goal of eradicating child poverty by 2020. Clear strategies and initiatives, solid partnerships with key agencies, and a steadfast determination to do better, all contribute to what we hope will be a happier, healthier and more prosperous population.
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