Social Security Benefits: Children
Lords · Question HL13725 · Tabled 20 Jan 2026 · Department for Work and Pensions · Official record
Answered 2 Feb 2026
Question
Asked by Lord Bird
To ask His Majesty's Government how the interests of children are assessed in the design and ongoing operation of the benefit cap; and what mechanisms exist to ensure that the welfare of children is considered when policy is being decided.
Answer
Answered by Baroness Sherlock, 2 Feb 2026
The benefit cap aims to incentivise work as, where possible, it is in the best interest of children to be in working households. Living in a working family has a positive impact on children’s educational attainment, mental health, and long-term aspiration...