Commenting on Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s statement on the cost of living crisis, Dan Paskins, Director of UK Impact at Save the Children, said:

“Today’s announcement is welcome and will provide much needed breathing space to many families struggling with the cost of living. It's a generous package, and the Chancellor has clearly listened to the unacceptable conditions people have been facing.

“We know parents have been skipping meals so there’s enough food for their children. That hot meals are scarce. That they’ve been turning out the lights to save electricity and watching the meter every day.

“There is now some relief. The £650 one off payment will ease some of the burden for people on lower incomes. This, combined with other more universal measures will mean low-income families most in need of support have an extra £100 a month.

“This decision shows that the government understands that the most effective way of supporting those struggling most with the cost of living is through social security. The approach they’ve taken today is the right one, and hopefully the start of reversing years of cuts to social security, and reducing the number of children living in poverty."