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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics

DARK SECRETS: Reduce child poverty with compassion and fairness | Rare Historical Photos

Children enjoying playing on swings in a park near Ashford, Kent.
‘The hesitation over ending the two-child benefit cap should count as an embarrassment in England.’ Photograph: Gareth Fuller/PA

I read Archbishop Stephen Cottrell’s article with compassion, but also frustration (I have seen the extent of child poverty in the UK and I say this: the two-child benefit cap must go, 1 September) . As someone from the squeezed middle, I work hard, live modestly and make careful choices. We share one car, skip holidays and stretch every pound. I haven’t ruled out having another child – but the cost of living makes it feel increasingly out of reach.

I agree no child should go hungry. But we must also ask: is it fair to expect taxpayers to subsidise larger families when many of us limit our own because we simply can’t afford more? If we remove all boundaries, where does that leave those of us who plan carefully and still struggle?

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