Action for Children publishes report on changing childhood

Date: 14th August 2019
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The report explores how childhoods have changed since the charity was set up in 1869.

The main findings include:

• Over the last 150 years, things have got a lot better for children. However, children and families think that in recent years childhoods have got worse
• Strong parent-child relationships in the early years are critical to ensure positive childhood experiences, yet vital services that strengthen these are being cut
• For many young people, childhood is overshadowed by anxiety, which is exacerbated by social pressure
• Increasing numbers of children are at risk of abuse and neglect without getting the support they need to prevent harm and recover from past trauma

The report recommends development of a cross-government National Childhood Strategy for the UK, underpinned by adequate investment in services that support children and families. In addition, early interventions policies are suggested as the most effective approach to improving children’s lives and reducing demand for costly late intervention services.

• Read the executive summary