Family Futures - pathways out of extreme poverty

Introduction

Poverty can force families to rely on their children's earnings, preventing children from accessing education. UKBET's Family Futures – Pathway out of Extreme Poverty programme addresses this challenge by helping families develop sustainable sources of income so children can move away from labour and pursue their education.

Key achievements in 2026

• 91 families received microgrants to establish or strengthen small businesses.
• 93 children participated in vocational training, with 39 completing their courses.
• 13 job placements were recorded following vocational training.
• 10 children entered formal education, with further school admissions being prepared for December 2026 and January 2027.

Helping families build sustainable livelihoods

Your support has helped families establish or strengthen small businesses, including tailoring, tea stalls, grocery shops, food vending, small trading, poultry rearing and vegetable cultivation. These microgrants help parents develop alternative sources of income and reduce the financial pressure on children to contribute to household expenses.

By combining livelihood support with vocational training and educational assistance, Family Futures addresses the financial pressures behind child labour while helping families work towards greater stability.

Case study – Mahie's new dream

At just 9 years old, Mahie became a domestic child labourer because of her family's financial difficulties. Instead of attending school, she had to work in other people's homes while continuing to dream of returning to the classroom.

Through UKBET's Family Futures programme, her father received a microgrant to open a small mobile sandal shop, helping him earn an income and support the family. This support has given Mahie renewed hope of leaving domestic work and returning to school.

“I want to go back to school. I want to study, grow up and do something for myself and my family,” says Mahie.

Mahie's story shows how helping parents build a livelihood can reduce financial pressure on families and give children a better opportunity to pursue education rather than child labour.

Looking ahead

In the final months of 2026, UKBET will continue supporting families to strengthen their businesses, help vocational trainees complete their courses and prepare more children for school admission.

Thank you for helping families build more secure livelihoods and giving children a better opportunity to learn and thrive.

When families can earn a sustainable income, children have a better chance to build their futures through education rather than labour.