Legislating to reduce child poverty

High levels of child poverty have stark social implications. It is now well documented that children who grow up in poor households are also more likely to experience adverse outcomes in other facets of their life. There is growing recognition that a systematic policy approach is required if child poverty in New Zealand and its broad social impact are to be sustainably reduced. Using legislation to embed a child poverty reduction strategy is one approach to consider. This Research Brief is based on a research paper by John Hancock and explores the impacts child poverty legislation has had in the UK, and what lessons New Zealand can take from that approach.