This includes removal of the two-child limit, among other proposals.

The North Antrim MLA has said: “We, alongside incredible advocacy organisations like the Cliff Edge Coalition, have been calling for clarity on this situation for months now as this cliff edge loomed closer, and the announcement of these mitigations will be a welcome reprieve for those 38,000 welfare recipients impacted.

“However, we cannot slow down or let this be the ceiling of our ambition in helping lift some of the most vulnerable in our society out of poverty.

“Now, we need to see the Communities Minister look to the other changes outlined in the Independent Advisory Report on Welfare Mitigations that, if implemented, could further help those experiencing poverty, and those who are most at risk of falling into it.

“The most pressing is the removal of the two-child limit, with this action alone expected to dramatically reduce the number of children in Northern Ireland living in poverty. It also, however, includes addressing the callous five week wait faced by Universal Credit claimants, as detailed in Alliance’s policy document ‘No More Time to Wait’, and the introduction of Carers’ Recognition payments.

“If we are truly serious about reducing the appalling levels of poverty here, the Minister must consider every option and be willing to take decisive action. The extension of the mitigations package is the welcome first step in that process, but there is still a job of work to do.”