Child poverty in Murcia hits alarming highs, affecting over 122,000 youngsters

Four in ten children are at risk of social exclusion, the highest rate in Spain and a clear call for urgent action

Child poverty continues to rise unchecked in the Region of Murcia, with more than 122,000 children now living below the poverty line. The latest report from the Platform for Children reveals that 40.7% of minors in Murcia face social exclusion, a figure seven points higher than last year and well above the national average of 29.2%.

The region also tops the country in severe child poverty, with 20.8% of children living in extreme deprivation; this means around 62,600 children struggling to meet their most basic needs. Low wages, job insecurity, and an average income far below the national figure trap thousands of families in poverty. Murcia’s average household income is €18,111, nearly €3,650 less than the Spanish average and second lowest after Extremadura.

The report ranks Murcia second in Spain for child poverty and social exclusion combined, just behind Andalusia. This marks the highest level since 2015, even surpassing pandemic-era rates. The economic crisis has left lasting effects, with severe poverty rates fluctuating over the years but showing a worrying upward trend in recent times.

You might also be interested in: Hacienda del Álamo Christmas gift appeal for children: Donate now!

In response, the Platform for Children in Murcia is urging authorities to take immediate and comprehensive action. Suggested measures include expanding minimum income schemes, creating integrated social, health, and education protocols to identify and support vulnerable children, and forming a support network involving local governments, nonprofits, and community groups.

They also call for ensuring families can meet basic needs such as food, education, transport, utilities, and housing. Emergency aid and access to early childhood education are seen as key to reducing inequality.
Companies are invited to help by hiring parents from vulnerable families and providing personalised support that balances work and family life, especially for those with very young children.

While the regional government highlights recent initiatives like the Basic Material Assistance Program, which supported over 3,000 families this year, and increased subsidies for large and single-parent families, the challenge remains urgent. New investments have also funded childcare support and early intervention programs to prevent chronic poverty.

Murcia’s child poverty crisis is a stark reminder of the inequality still gripping many families and the pressing need for coordinated efforts to build a fairer future for the region’s youngest residents.

Image: titouhwayne/Pixabay