The report highlights the links between child poverty and poor health in the UK. It reveals how children born into disadvantaged families are 10 times more likely to die suddenly in infancy and two and a half times more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses as toddlers. Children living in poorer families are also twice as likely to suffer from cerebral palsy and more than three times as likely to suffer from mental disorders.
The report also shows how adults who grow up in poverty suffer from poorer health later in life, including fatal heart diseases, diabetes and mental ill health.
Hilary Fisher, director of End Child Poverty, said: "This evidence has profound implications for public policy. The facts prove that effective action to end child poverty would make a vital long-term contribution to improving the health of our nation and reduce incidences of obesity, heart disease and mental illness."
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
