Welfare reforms will make children's lives worse

 The bill is completing its – latterly stormy – passage through parliament. The statement was signed by all four commissioners, all worried about the likely consequences of the reforms for the very people who can do least to make things better.

They are, of course, the children. They are especially those who are already poor, disabled, young carers or living in private rented accommodation. These children live especially, but not exclusively, in our bigger cities. The bill will affect them especially if they are part of a larger family, come from some black and minority ethnic communities, or possess a combination of these factors. Bluntly, issues of natural justice are at stake. It is part of the commissioners’ roles to prick the conscience of adults with the power to safeguard the lives of our children. For themselves they have no power, but will be badly affected by this proposed legislation.