New statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions show 7,266 children in Derry City and Strabane district experienced poverty after housing costs. This represents 23% of children in the area. The figures mark the highest rate across Northern Ireland councils.

The data covers annual numbers and proportions of children in low-income families for each council in Northern Ireland. Publication occurred on Thursday.

Becca Bor, Development Coordinator at the Northern Ireland Anti-Poverty Network, said poverty levels vary across Northern Ireland. She noted 14% of children in Lisburn and Castlereagh Council faced poverty compared to 23% in Derry City and Strabane.

Bor stated government must invest more in households to cut child poverty. She mentioned the two-child limit will end in April due to campaigning. The benefit cap stands mitigated in Northern Ireland.

Bor called for strengthening Universal Credit with an essentials guarantee and added support like a child payment for families. She urged Stormont to prioritize tackling child poverty immediately.