Skinner, Guy and Kennedy, Eilis (2024) The cost of poverty for child development: The adverse impact on maltreatment, education and mental health outcomes cannot be ignored. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry . ISSN 1359-1045 (Print); 1461-7021 (Electronic)

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Abstract

The Cost of Poverty for Child Development: Recent reports highlight the growing issue of child poverty in the UK, with over 4 million children affected, and 1 million in Northern England alone. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation reveals that 600,000 more people, half of them children, have fallen into absolute poverty. Poverty has significant impacts on children’s well-being and increasing the risk of neglect and abuse. Data shows that many children referred to authorities for neglect and abuse are under five, and in areas like Blackpool, 1 in 52 children is in care. Poverty also severely affects children’s mental health. A report from the Children’s Commissioner links poverty to higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression in children. NHS data shows that children in households with reduced income are more likely to experience mental health issues, with 1 in 4 affected children showing probable mental disorders. Educationally, children in poverty face serious challenges. They leave school significantly behind their peers, and only 4 in 10 disadvantaged children meet basic academic standards. This disadvantage extends into poor health and job prospects. Addressing these issues requires poverty-aware practices among professionals working with children. Mental health and social care services should integrate support for financial difficulties, including poverty screenings and financial counselling. Research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of combined financial and psychological interventions to break the cycle of poverty. By focusing on poverty-informed practices, professionals can help improve outcomes for children in education, mental health, and overall well-being, emphasising that tackling child poverty is a necessary investment for society's future.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Research & Development Unit
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Child maltreatment, education, child mental health, poverty, intersectionality
Subjects:	Children, Young People and Developmental Pyschology > Child Development Children, Young People and Developmental Pyschology > Child Care Children, Young People and Developmental Pyschology > Child Abuse & Neglect - Psychology
Department/People:	Research
URI:	https://repository.tavistockandportman.ac.uk/id/eprint/2941

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