An expert has indicated that the decline in birth rates in the South West can be attributed to the prevailing economic conditions.

Dr. Alexander Haupt, an economics professor at the University of Plymouth, stated that financial uncertainty has led to a decrease in the birth rate in Devon.

Rachel May, a mother from Devon, shared that she spent four and a half years undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) before welcoming her daughter. She noted that the financial burden of having a child, combined with the challenges of living on maternity pay, made the journey particularly tough.

A representative from the government stated that maternity pay is merely "one aspect of the assistance offered to expectant mothers and new parents, who might also qualify for universal credit or child benefit."

Ms. May described maternity pay as being incredibly inadequate.

"She mentioned that she's heard numerous individuals express their uncertainty about managing things once they leave their jobs to welcome a child."

Emma Gould, a mother of two kids aged two and six, expressed that she couldn't manage the expenses of sending both of her children to nursery simultaneously.

According to the Office for National Statistics, fertility rates in England and Wales have been consistently decreasing since 2010.

Between 2022 and 2023, it was reported that the total fertility rate (TFR) for England and Wales fell from an average of 1.49 children per woman throughout their lifetime to 1.44, marking the lowest rate ever recorded.

Laura Gilbert, the proprietor of Moo Music, an early learning center located in Plymouth, mentioned that she has observed a decrease in attendance for the sessions aimed at younger children.

She mentioned, "Reaching out to parents with just one child is more challenging. However, when we have a parent who has already been involved, they are familiar with us."

Professor Haupt noted that the university had witnessed a decrease in fertility rates following the onset of the cost of living crisis.

"It has fallen to quite a concerning level," remarked Prof Haupt.

"One significant concern is economic instability, which I believe has contributed to the drop in fertility rates following the financial crisis."

"Deciding to have children is a commitment that spans many years, and individuals tend to value the opportunity to make this choice in a stable economic climate."

He mentioned that a significant consequence of the declining birth rate might be "shortages in the labor force" down the line.

He stated, "When examining the South West industries or sectors related to tourism or agriculture, especially since they are characterized by low wages, they struggle to secure enough labor."

He emphasized that the key priority for the government should be to establish a "stable economic climate."

"He further suggested that implementing regulations for the labor market, maternity leave, and addressing the housing market could prove beneficial."

A representative from the government stated that anyone wishing to have children should not feel discouraged from pursuing that goal.

"In line with our ongoing efforts to provide optimal support for working families and enhance economic growth, we will be conducting a comprehensive review of the existing statutory parental leave policies," they announced.

Details regarding the review of an expanded statutory parental leave will be revealed in "due course."