This issue focuses on one of the most pressing challenges facing Wales today: child poverty. As the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s recent research shows, poverty continues to entrench disadvantage in children’s lives – with Year 6 pupils in poverty found to be more than two years behind their peers in literacy and numeracy.

At Children in Wales we know that these statistics reflect the lived experiences of children and families across the country. Through our annual Child & Family Poverty Surveys, in partnership with the End Child Poverty Network Cymru, we gather first-hand insights into the impact of poverty – insights that tell a sobering story of deepening hardship.

In this edition, we hear from voices across the sector - our Policy Director, Sean O’Neill, reports on raising these concerns at Westminster with the re-formed All Party Parliamentary Group on Children in Wales; Barnardo’s Cymru highlights the urgent need for systemic change to reduce reliance on short-term fixes; we explore the intersectional nature of poverty through contributions from Credu (young carers), the Welsh Refugee Council (sanctuary-seeking children) and Family Pathway (neurodivergent children).

We also shine a light on innovative, community-based responses – from food provision and education support to ensuring children can still access their right to play, even under the pressures of poverty. Contributions from organisations such as Play Wales, Buttle UK, and the Welsh Local Government Association showcase the dedication and creativity at work across Wales.

This edition is both a stark reminder of how deeply child poverty is embedded in our society – and a call to action.

Thank you to all contributors for taking the time to write their articles and for their dedication in this area.

Read it here