URGENT action is needed to tackle child poverty and support families from day one.
That was the message Redditch MP Chris Bloore delivered to the House of Commons during a debate on ‘Giving Every Child the Best Start in Life’.
Drawing on stories from across the constituency Mr Bloore said: “Whether a child is growing up in Winyates, Woodrow or Harvington they all deserve the same shot at a bright future.
“Too many children are being held back, not by a lack of talent but by a lack of opportunity.”
He also mentioned furniture poverty, where families lack essential items like beds, chairs and cookers.
“In some homes in Redditch, children go to bed without a bed, do homework on the floor and eat meals without a table. This is 2025. That is unacceptable,” he said.
“No child should go without the basics.”
The MP also didn’t shy away from confronting long-standing issues – highlighting the situation at Ridgeway Secondary School.
“This is one of the most improved schools in the country – and they’re now being forced to raise millions just to keep the building fit for purpose.
“That’s the direct result of the last government’s decision to cancel Building Schools for the Future. It wasn’t levelling up – it was letting down our children.”
