A bold new action plan has launched to tackle child poverty in the North East. Developed by the North East Combined
Authority, led by the North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, the Child Poverty Action Plan brings together voices from
across our region – parents, carers, young people and partner organisations.
The plan sets out a five-year roadmap to:
• Supporting families here and now – doing what we can together to help families maximise their incomes
• Breaking down the barriers to opportunity that poverty can bring – collectively investing more in giving babies,
children and young people the best start in life.
• Tackling longer-term, structural challenges – including those which will help to make work pay, and create the
infrastructure of opportunity, for more families.
Steph Capewell, Founder and Chief Executive of Love, Amelia, said:
“Today marks a huge milestone for the North East.
Child poverty isn’t just about the statistics, it’s about children going to school hungry, families forced to share beds out of necessity rather than choice, and opportunities being missed.
This plan recognises that investing in families is essential, not just for fairness, but for the future prosperity of our region. It is a serious commitment to supporting babies, children and young people now, while building the foundations for long-term change. It crucially recognises that child poverty is not inevitable but a structural issue that demands bold, collective action, and today, the North East has taken a major step forward.
I was honoured to be invited to today’s Cabinet meeting, representing the voluntary sector alongside so many others who helped shape this plan. At Love, Amelia, we see the impact of poverty every day, so this work couldn’t be more urgent or more welcome.
It will take all of us – public, private and VCSE – to deliver real change. We’re proud to play our part, and we urge others to do the same.”
Steph Capewell Love, Amelia, Kim McGuinness North East Mayor, Juliet Sanders Feeding Families
