News

Policy debate about benefits needs to focus on 'real people', not stereotypes

A new campaign launched by the Child Poverty Action Group is calling on the Government to ensure that the benefits debate focuses on the needs of ordinary families.

The ‘People Like Us’ campaign has sent an open letter to the three main political parties asking them to concentrate on ‘real people, real families and real children’ in need when debating social security, rather than perpetuating negative stereotypes of benefits claimants.

The letter also invites party leaders to watch a short film entitled ‘It Could Be You’, in which three parents talk about benefits.

Jack, a parent receiving out of work benefits, is shown saying, ‘I think if you make these cuts now, especially where children are concerned, at the very beginnings of their lives, you’ll be picking up the bill for it a couple of decades down the line. Because my son is three years old now, how they can justify making him a little bit colder, a little bit hungrier, and his home a little bit less secure, I don’t know how they can justify it.’

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here