Junior Stocks and Shares ISA: The 18-Year Headstart

For an 18-year horizon, a cash JISA is almost guaranteed to lose to inflation while equities have historically won by 5x or more in real terms.

The 2026/27 JISA allowance is £9,000 per child, shared across cash and stocks and shares versions, paid in by anyone.

£100 a month from birth at 7% real becomes roughly £43,000 by age 18, versus around £28,600 at 3% nominal in cash.

The child takes full legal control on their 18th birthday. Plan the handover conversation years in advance.