Share your views on scrapping the two-child limit and ways to end child poverty?

Throughout the UK opinions differ on the benefits that scrapping the two-child limit may bring to families. Parents in Northern Ireland now have the opportunity to express their views and possibly influence locally elected political representatives.

The two-child benefit cap applies to children born after April 6, 2017. It means that families are only eligible for the additional means tested support provided by Universal Credit or Child Tax Credit, for the first two children in the household.

Although the policy has some exceptions such as in cases of multiple births and non-consensual conception, it has been highly controversial since the Conservative government introduced it in 2017.  Many charities and opposition parties argue it is a major driver of child poverty.

The Scottish Government have set out plans to mitigate against it and will effectively scrap the impact of the two-child limit from March 2026, as a new Scottish social security benefit will be rolled out.  On that date the ‘Two Child Limit Payment’ will begin accepting applications. According to Scottish Government modelling its introduction will mean 20,000 fewer children will be living in relative poverty in 2026-27.

Calls on the Westminster Government to end the two-child cap throughout the UK have failed so far although reports suggest that they are looking at the impact it is having.

We know from speaking to parents on our Family Benefits Advice Service helpline that the policy affects many families in Northern Ireland.

The NI Executive has committed to a joined up, long term approach to addressing poverty and has published the Northern Ireland Anti-Poverty Strategy.  We would encourage everyone to read and comment on the strategy which is out for consultation now.

Have your say at www.communities-ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-ni-executive-anti-poverty-strategy

Closing date for consultation responses – 19 September 2025