In a landmark speech delivered today at the Coin Street Neighbourhood Centre, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a comprehensive overhaul of the UK's social security system, aimed at breaking cycles of poverty, worklessness, and dependency while unlocking the potential of every citizen, particularly young people.
The reforms come in the wake of the government's recent budget, which included scrapping the two child benefit limit to lift over half a million children out of poverty, reducing pressure on public services like the NHS, and fostering long-term economic growth.
Starmer highlighted the need to address Britain's record levels of long-term sickness and inactivity, especially among the youth, stating that the current welfare system is "trapping people, not just in poverty, but out of work."
"This is not about propping up a broken status quo," Starmer emphasized in his address. "We need to remove all the barriers which hold back the potential of our young people... That costs the country money, is bad for our productivity, and most importantly of all – it is a massive waste of potential."
The announcement builds on broader government initiatives, such as expanding free childcare for children aged 9 months to four years, introducing 2,000 free breakfast clubs in schools, and enhancing security for 11 million renters starting in May. These measures are part of Starmer's vision for a "Britain built for all," where economic renewal addresses low productivity scarred by past austerity and Brexit, while promoting fairness and opportunity.
Defending the recent budget against criticism, Starmer noted that tough choices were necessary to stabilize public finances, cut borrowing faster than any G7 nation, and deliver real benefits like frozen rail fares, prescription charges, and fuel duty, alongside reductions in energy bills and childcare costs.
He rejected accusations of misleading the public on finances, asserting that the government's approach has already exceeded growth forecasts and positioned the UK for a brighter future.