Research shows the negative impact of poverty on children’s life chances

The Public Health Agency has welcomed the publication of research by the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister which reveals that poverty here has a real and negative impact on children's outcomes at the age of five.

The research examined data from the Millennium Cohort Study, a study following around 19,000 children born in the UK in 2000/2001, of which around 1,800 were from Northern Ireland.

The report, The consequences of childhood disadvantage in Northern Ireland at age five, was produced by a research team at the Institute of Education in London. It shows that income poverty is associated with poorer cognitive, educational, and behavioural child development. In addition, both general health and the incidence of overweight are worse among young children from families experiencing poverty.

Dr Carolyn Harper, Executive Medical Director/Director of Public Health, said: “The research findings and related areas that require interventions, including poverty, smoking, obesity and improving outcomes for children and families, correspond with the strategic priorities of the Public Health Agency.”

The report is available on the OFMDFM website at:
http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/equality/equalityresearch/research-publications/esn-pubs/publications_2010.htm