The number of children living in poverty has risen to one in three in some parts of Braintree.

After the cost of housing is accounted for, 29.26 per cent of children in Bocking South and 27.71 per cent in Braintree East were classed as living under the breadline, according to the Campaign to End Child Poverty.

Witham West was fourth worst in the district, at 26.76 per cent, followed by Witham North at 25.49 per cent.

Bradwell, Rivenhall and Silver End also fared badly, with 24.26 per cent children in poverty.

Braintree Council is investigating the problem of poverty in the district, and has set up a committee of councillors find out how recent benefits changes have affected the poorest residents and the demand on voluntary organisations such as food banks and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

* If these issues affect you or you have a view, email us at bwtpost@nqe.com. Full story in tomorrow's Braintree and Witham Times.