Summary
The article examines why more families in England and Wales are having only one child. Rising living costs and financial concerns are making it difficult for many families to afford having more children, contributing to a lower birth rate.
Key Facts
- The fertility rate in England and Wales was 1.41 children per woman last year, the lowest recorded.
- Families with one child now make up 44% of families with dependent children in England and Wales.
- The global fertility rate is declining due to financial worries, according to a United Nations report.
- The cost of nursery care for children under two in England dropped for the first time in 15 years.
- A study found that many people want more children, but fewer are actively trying to have them.
- The falling birth rate is affecting the number of school pupils, creating challenges for education policymakers.
- People are starting families later in life due to career and education opportunities, impacting birth rates.
