Over one in four children in the UK live in poverty, with many families unable to afford basic necessities or activities. Growing up in poverty negatively impacts children's development and costs society an estimated £25 billion per year. Certain groups are more at risk of living in poverty, including families with children, single parents, workless households, some ethnic minorities, those with disabilities, and those in inner London. Reducing child poverty requires addressing issues like unemployment, low wages, and inadequate benefits.